Raising Awareness and Standing Together this Domestic Abuse Awareness Month
October marks Domestic Abuse Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the reality faced by thousands of women and families every day.
Domestic abuse is not always physical. It can also include emotional, psychological, coercive, financial and controlling behaviour. By learning to recognise the signs and speaking up, we can help break the silence surrounding abuse and ensure those affected know that support is available. No one should have to face domestic abuse alone.
At YWCA Yorkshire, we are committed to providing safe spaces, specialist support and opportunities for women to rebuild their lives with confidence, independence and hope.
We offer various specialist programmes that work towards preventing, understanding and overcoming domestic abuse. Some of these programmes include:
The Freedom Programme that examines the roles played by attitudes and beliefs on the actions of abusive men and the responses of those affected.
Escape the Trap which is an innovative programme developed in acknowledgement of the rising numbers of young people that are vulnerable to teenage relationship abuse.
You and Me, Mum which helps women to understand how domestic violence affects them as a parent and how it affects children.
WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) which is a person-centred approach that helps individuals identify practical strategies, sources of support, and actions to maintain wellbeing, manage challenges, and work towards their recovery goals.
These programmes are available for the young people and families that are supported by YWCA Yorkshire. Some of these programmes are delivered by our Green Gables Project to the wider community in Doncaster.
If you would like to join the waiting list for our Green Gables domestic abuse courses, please fill out this referral form. If you would like to join the waiting list for the WRAP programme specifically, you can do so here. For any further information or to speak to a member of our team, please visit our website.
National Domestic Abuse Support
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, national help is available:
National Domestic Abuse Helpline (24/7): 0808 2000 247. Free, confidential support for women experiencing domestic abuse.
Women's Aid: Information, support, safety planning, survivor forums and a directory of local services. Visit: https://www.womensaid.org.uk/information-support/
Emergency Situations: If you are in immediate danger, call 999. If you cannot speak, use the Silent Solution system by dialing 999 and pressing 55 when prompted.
Together, we can raise awareness, challenge abuse and help create a future where women and families feel safe, supported and empowered. If you need help, please remember that support is available and you do not have to face abuse alone.