Domestic violence helplines

Domestic abuse is any incident of threatening behaviour or violence between adults in an intimate or family-type relationship.  This kind of behaviour can happen over a long period of time.  It covers physical, sexual, psychological or financial abuse.  It doesn't matter what your age, gender, race or sexuality is, how much you earn or where you come from - anyone can suffer abuse.Everyone has the right to live free from abuse and fear.

If you are experiencing domestic violence, you may feel humiliated, frightened, ashamed, alone and confused. Please know that you are not to blame and you are not alone.

You can contact the Domestic Violence Helpline in Northern Ireland, or a local refuge or other domestic abuse support services (see contact information below) for practical and emotional support, advocacy and information.

Whether or not you decide to leave your abuser, the Domestic Violence Helpline or local refuge organisations or domestic violence support services can help you plan how to leave in an emergency and to find a place of safety. If you decide to move away by yourself, make sure it’s safe and that you can’t be traced straightaway.

Sources of help, support and advice for those suffering from domestic violence

24/7 Domestic Violence Helpline (open to anyone who is affected by domestic abuse; men and women)
Tel: 0800 917 1414
The call is free from a landline. The helpline will phone you back if you phone from a mobile, and a translation service is available.
You can also email 24hrssupport@dvhelpline.org

Women’s Aid NI (Support and advice for women who have suffered or are suffering from domestic abuse)
24 hour helpline: 0800 917 1414
Causeway Women’s Aid 028 70356573
Antrim, Ballymena, Carrickfergus, Larne and Newtownabbey 028 25632136
Cookstown, Magherafelt 028 86769300

Self-referrals to Domestic Violence Services
You can also self-refer to most refuge organisations by contacting one of the services listed in the Domestic Abuse Directory on the Women’s Aid website.

Preventing Violence in Relationships (For men who wish to change controlling /violent relationships)
Tel: 028 9032 3454

Mens Advisory Project (Provides counselling and support for male victims of domestic abuse)
Tel: 028 9024 1929

Page last updated:06 February 2013