Domestic abuse
Your safety and wellbeing are our top priority. If you’re experiencing domestic abuse, please know that you’re not alone and help is available.
Domestic abuse can take many forms, no one should have to live in fear in their own home, and we are here to support you in any way we can.
If you are in immediate danger, always call the police (999). If you find yourself in a situation where you can’t talk, pressing 55 after dialing 999 lets the operator know your call is genuine.
Identifying domestic abuse
You may be experiencing abuse if you feel the need to change your actions or behaviour out of fear of how someone might respond or treat you.
Abuse can happen as a one-off incident, or it may develop into an ongoing pattern over time.
Domestic abuse doesn’t always involve physical violence. In many cases, it begins in other ways, such as:
- manipulation, coercion, intimidation, or threats
- control of your finances
- preventing you from seeing friends or family
- constant criticism or belittling
- making you afraid to refuse or say no.
Domestic abuse usually takes place between people aged 16 or over who are, or have been, partners or family members. It can also include:
- abuse between adults and their elderly parents
- so-called “honour-based” abuse
- female genital mutilation (FGM)
- forced marriage.
Anyone can be affected by domestic abuse, regardless of gender, age, background, ethnicity, sexuality, or financial situation.
As well as the police, you can get help from your local council services, charities, and voluntary organisations.
Advice and support
At MTD, we are dedicated to supporting anyone who may be experiencing domestic abuse. We understand how difficult it can be to reach out, and we will always handle what you tell us with sensitivity and respect. Everything you share will remain confidential, unless there are safeguarding concerns that legally require us to pass information on to protect you or others from harm.
We can connect you with trusted organisations that provide specialist advice and support. With your consent, we can also contact the police or local social services on your behalf. In urgent cases, we can work with the local council to arrange safe temporary accommodation, or help you access a refuge if you need to leave your home. If you decide to remain in your property once the abuser has left, MTD can help make your home feel safer by arranging additional security measures. These might include extra locks, alarms, or other safety features to give you peace of mind.
If you are experiencing domestic abuse, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can report concerns to MTD Housing by calling 01883 770 250, where you will be directed to our Housing Management Team. Alternatively, you can email us at enquiries@mtdhousing.co.uk.