If you’re made to feel scared, controlled or unable to make your own decisions by your partner, ex-partner or a family member, this could be abuse. Your relationship doesn’t have to be physically violent to be abusive.

Healthy relationships aren’t like this. Abusive behaviour is always unacceptable and it’s not your fault. It’s important to know that your abuser is responsible for their own choices and actions.

Domestic abuse is experienced by people of all ages, all backgrounds, genders, gender identities and sexualities. Whoever you are and whatever abuse you’re experiencing, it’s not your fault and you’re not alone.

Talking about abuse can be hard

It’s normal to feel anxious about asking for help. Calling a Helpline can feel like a big step, but you can choose to share as much or as little as you like. You don’t have to give your real name and you can call us anonymously. 

Taking that first step means you can get advice and support to help keep you safe, ensure you feel heard, and gain control of your life. 

Domestic abuse services for women

Juno Women’s Aid support women, teenagers and children living in Nottingham city or Nottinghamshire. They run the main 24-hour domestic abuse helpline.

• Call free and in confidence on 0808 800 0340
• Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
• Free from landlines and won’t appear on your bill

What else they offer

• One-to-one support and safety planning
• Support for children and teenagers
• Pet fostering service
• Help with planning to leave and emergency accommodation
• Language interpretation available
• If you are hearing impaired, text “Relay/NGT” to 18001 0808 800 0340. This option is available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year.

If you’re worried about forced marriage

Contact the Forced Marriage Unit (FMU) on 0207 008 0151 if you’re trying to stop a forced marriage or you need help leaving a marriage you’ve been forced into.

Other local support organisations are below: