Get help

You've already taken the hardest step.

Looking for this page took courage. Whatever your situation — whether you want to leave, need advice, or just need someone to believe you — we're here. Free. Confidential. No pressure, no judgement.

In immediate danger
Call 999
If you can't speak, press 55 when prompted — the operator will understand.
Call Ruth Safe Haven
Free & confidential · Ruth Mutanda or Sarah Larbi will answer
What happens when you call

No forms. No queue. Just a person who listens.

1

We listen

Tell us as much or as little as you want. We believe you — from the first word.

2

We check you're safe

Together we work out what's safe right now — for you and your children, if you have them.

3

We make a plan

Your pace, your choices — from safety planning to refuge, advocacy or counselling.

4

We stay with you

Support doesn't end at safety. We walk with you to independence — however long it takes.

Browsing safely

Cover your tracks.

  • a.Quick Exit — the red button at the top (or the Esc key) instantly replaces this site with a weather page.
  • b.Use a private window — Incognito or Private Browsing leaves no history on the device.
  • c.Use a safer device — a work computer, library PC or a trusted friend's phone, if yours may be monitored.
  • d.Delete this page from history — in your browser's history, remove entries for this site if you didn't use a private window.
Worried about someone?

You could be their way out.

If a friend, family member, colleague or neighbour may be experiencing abuse: believe them, don't push, and never confront the abuser. Call us for advice on how to help safely — you don't need their permission to ask us what to do.

Professionals and agencies: we provide information, advice, training and joined-up responses. Learn about our training →

National helplines

Help is always open, day and night.

National Domestic Abuse Helpline
Refuge · 24 hours · free · for women
0808 2000 247
Men's Advice Line
For male survivors · free · confidential
0808 801 0327
Childline
For children & young people · 24 hours · free
0800 1111
Galop LGBT+ Helpline
For LGBT+ people experiencing abuse · free
0800 999 5428
Things people worry about

Asked quietly, answered honestly.

“Will you tell anyone I called?”

No. Everything is confidential. The only exception is if a child or adult is in danger of serious harm — and even then, we tell you first wherever possible. We never confirm to anyone that you contacted us.

“Do I have to leave my home?”

No. Calling us doesn't commit you to anything. Many people talk to us for months before making any decision — and some never leave. Your choices stay yours.

“What if I'm not sure it's abuse?”

Abuse isn't only physical. Controlling money, isolating you from family, constant criticism, threats, and pressure are abuse too. If something feels wrong, that's reason enough to call.

“Does it cost anything?”

Nothing, ever. Every service — phone support, counselling, group work, advocacy — is completely free, for everyone.