Domestic violence
Help is available
Advice, information and emergency accommodation is available for
anyone who has experienced, or is experiencing
domestic abuse whether it be mental, physical or emotional
abuse.
If you'd prefer to speak to someone other than the police about
the incident, contact the Domestic Violence Forum on 01706 718 923
or get
help online.
Our Hands Off! campaign against domestic abuse
We've launched a new campaign against domestic abuse called the
‘Hands Off!’ campaign. Its aims are to:
- Send a clear message to abusers that violence will not be
tolerated
- Empower victims to report offences
- Offer victims vital reassurance that agencies across the
borough are committed to tackling this violent crime.
It’s part of our multi-agency commitment to reduce the impact of
domestic violence within our communities.
Are you suffering domestic abuse?
Domestic abuse is the physical, emotional, sexual or
psychological abuse of an individual, which takes place within a
close or intimate relationship.
- One in four women is a victim of domestic abuse.
- Domestic abuse has no regard for age, nationality, race,
ability or whether your partner is of the same or opposite
sex.
- There is a wide range of support services available for victims
of domestic abuse.
- Do not suffer in silence. Seek advice and support. Report the
abuse.
Safer Homes Scheme
The Safer Homes Scheme provides a service which enables victims
of domestic violence to continue to live in their own homes, should
they wish to, by providing tailored packages of home security
measures to make the home more secure.
There is a high incidence of reported domestic violence in
the borough. This can lead to homelessness, disruption of work,
schooling and physical and mental health problems. In the current
climate of over stretched housing stock and full hostel
accommodation, it can also lead to extremely vulnerable people
being placed in bed and breakfast accommodation outside of the
borough (an environment it is difficult to regulate or make safe)
or when faced with this choice, remaining in a home which is
unsafe.
Being able to remain in your home allows for the important
networks surrounding family life to continue. Support, both
emotional and practical, from family and friends is important and
difficult to access from a distance. Children are able to continue
their education without the stress of starting a new school, making
new friends and meeting new teachers. The family retain the
familiarity of their local services and the benefits to health and
well being this continuity provides.
It is the first step in ensuring individuals are empowered to
reclaim control of their lives. We will take all reasonable steps
possible to promote and defend the rights of Rochdale borough
residents to live free from violence, intimidation and abuse.
Eligibility Criteria
Rochdale Safer Homes Scheme looks to help victims of domestic
violence or abuse to create a safe and secure home.
The scheme is targeted at victims who are prepared to exclude
the perpetrator from residing in the premises or look to reduce the
risk of harm at home. The scheme is not available for victims of
neighbour nuisance or Anti Social Behaviour, however help and
support is available from Rochdale MBC Community Safety Team in
these area’s.
You do not need to be taking legal action against the
perpetrator to qualify for the scheme.
Rochdale Safer Homes Scheme understands that every application
to the scheme will have its own particular issues and these will be
assessed sensitively and appropriately.
If temporary accommodation is required until the works are carried
out this will be arranged by the Homelessness Team.