Domestic abuse
Domestic abuse can affect people and communities and leave a devastating impact on survivors, their families and the wider community.
Local authorities have an important role to play in tackling domestic abuse and are key partners in the multi-agency approach to tackling domestic abuse and sexual violence.
Mid Devon Housing participate in MARAC's (Multiagency Risk Assessment Conferences), where partner agencies come together to safeguard individuals in high risk cases of domestic abuse.
On 29th April 2021, the Domestic Abuse Act became law.
The definition of domestic abuse is in two parts. The first part deals with the relationship between the perpetrator and the survivor. The second part defines what constitutes abusive behaviour.
The two criteria, governing the relationship between the perpetrator and the survivor
- Both the person who is carrying out the behaviour and the person to whom the behaviour is directed towards must be aged 16 or over
- Both persons must be ‘personally connected’ (including ex-partners and family members)
Abuse which is directed to a person, under the age of 16 would be dealt with as child abuse rather than domestic abuse
Behaviour is ‘abusive’ if it consists of any of the following:
- physical or sexual abuse;
- violent or threatening behaviour;
- controlling or coercive behaviour;
- economic abuse (see below)
- psychological, emotional or other abuse
“Economic abuse” means any behaviour that has a substantial adverse effect on B’s ability to acquire, use or maintain money or other property, or obtain goods or services.
It doesn't matter whether the behaviour consists of a single incident or a course of conduct.
The Act recognises a child who sees or hears or experiences the effects of abuse, and treats them as a victim of domestic abuse where they are related to either the perpetrator or the survivor.
The Act also introduced a new statutory duty on local authorities to deliver accommodation-based support to victims of domestic abuse.
For the full definition, please visit: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2021/17/part/1/enacted
If you or someone you know is suffering from domestic abuse, we encourage you to make contact with one of the agencies who can help.
In an emergency, call 999. You can also call the police on 101 in a non-emergency
- National Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247
- Victim Support helpline 0808 1689 111
- Refuge 24 hour helpline 0808 801 0327
Bright Sky app – this app can be downloaded for free from the app stores. Only download the app if it is safe for you to do so and if you are sure that your mobile phone isn’t being monitored.
Ask for ANI code word
If you are experiencing domestic abuse and need immediate help, ask for ‘ANI’ in participating pharmacies. ‘ANI’ stands for Action Needed Immediately. If the pharmacy has the ‘Ask for Ani’ logo on display, it means they are ready to help you.
Other support available to you - Support Services
A confidential and anonymous helpline offering advice, information and support to anyone who is concerned about their violence and/or abuse towards a partner or ex-partner.
- Respect phoneline – 0808 802 4040
If you are a tenant of Mid Devon Housing and you are experiencing domestic abuse and want to discuss your tenancy, please contact the Neighbourhood Team on 01884 255255 or by emailing htenancy@middevon.gov.uk Your enquiry will be dealt with by a trained member of staff, in a confidential, non-judgemental way.
If you are at risk of homelessness, please contact the Housing Options Team on 01884 255255 or alternatively, please complete Homelessness Self-Referral Portal