During these unprecedented times, partner organisations across Dudley are working harder than ever to support victims of domestic abuse.
The government has asked people to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives but for some, domestic abuse means home isn’t their safe place and support services across Dudley borough are here to help.
Dudley’s community safety partnership, safe & sound and Dudley safeguarding people partnership want to make sure no victim of domestic abuse is left unsupported.
Dudley’s single point of contact (SPOC) number is 01384 455411 and gives those who need help a direct line to various support services offered by a range of providers. The service is delivered by Black Country Women’s Aid.
The number is open to victims, families and professionals and helps people get to the right service as quickly and easily as possible when support is needed.
Information about all support services can be found at www.dudleysafeandsound.org/domesticabuse
Councillor Laura Taylor, cabinet member for housing, communities and residents’ welfare, said:
"These are difficult and challenging times for everyone but for people living with domestic abuse the challenge of staying at home is even greater and its essential victims of domestic abuse know we are still here to support them.
"By working with our partners and sharing resources, we can keep linking people who need to access domestic violence and abuse services to the right organisations as quickly as possible."
Sally Bourner, Dudley Neighbourhood Policing Unit Commander and chair of safe & sound, Dudley’s Community Safety Partnership, said:
"The most important thing to remember if you are a victim of domestic abuse is that you are not alone. Services across our borough are working harder than ever to make sure support is there when people need it.
"Being asked to stay at home adds additional pressure where pressure already exists and it’s really important to know we will keep working together with our partners to support any victim of domestic abuse.
"Please don’t suffer in silence, there’s lots of ways you can contact services from a phone call to online webchats. Whichever way you choose to make contact we’ll be here with the support."
Domestic violence and abuse services can be accessed through the single point of contact on 01384 455411. You can also contact West Midlands Police. In an emergency dial 999 and if it’s too dangerous to speak press 55 when connected and the operator will know you need help.
For non-emergencies you can contact police via Live Chat which is available every day between 8am and midnight via www.west-midlands.police.uk. If you do not have internet access you can call the police on the 101 non-emergency number.
Children are often the hidden victims of domestic abuse, if you think a child is at risk call 0300 555 0050.
People can also visit www.dudleysafeandsound.org to find out more about domestic abuse services.