Domestic Violence

It is difficult to know how many people live with domestic abuse, but research shows that it is widespread, under reported and that the level of repeat abuse is high.

Domestic abuse is associated with broader inequalities in society; it is part of a range of behaviours constituting abuse of power and is linked to other forms of violence such as rape and child abuse. Abuse is likely to escalate in frequency and intensity over time and may increase at specific events in the person’s life such as when trying to leave the relationship, separation or divorce, redundancy, being in debt and, in the case of women, during pregnancy and following the birth of a child. Domestic abuse may have a damaging, sometimes life-threatening impact on the physical and mental well-being of those who experience it.

Violation of Human Rights

The nature and characteristics of domestic abuse is a fundamental violation of human rights that crosses all social boundaries. It is not race, religion or class specific, nor is it restrained by wealth or educational attainment. Domestic abuse is committed by all types of people from all walks of life.

Domestic Abuse is Criminal

Domestic abuse comprises of behaviour that is both socially unacceptable and is often criminal in nature. It is largely hidden and unspoken of, and it generally takes place within the privacy of the home and behind closed doors, making it difficult for those who experience domestic abuse to seek help. Domestic abuse can be physical, sexual, verbal or emotional.

Physical and sexual abuse speak for themselves and can be anything from a slap to rape and murder, but among survivors of abuse it is commonly agreed that emotional abuse leaves the deepest wounds and is also the most difficult to see and understand. It is often domination by fear, hidden threats, isolation, humiliation, blame and the destruction of self-esteem. Often the abused becomes so focused on the abuser that fear of reprisal can influence the person’s decision to stay and even defend their partner’s actions.

Abuse may start with subtle actions such as moodiness and jealousy over minor incidents and frequently intensifies over time until the abused may be constantly watched, monitored and controlled by the abuser.

Domestic abuse is one person’s need to control and dominate another and while alcohol, drugs or mental ill health may exacerbate the situation, the fact remains that domestic abuse is often, although not always, deliberate, systematic and planned. Sexual stereotyping with the woman as the inferior is a common feature of domestic abuse and is partially condoned by the society in which we live. It protects both male and female abusers.

Domestic Violence Contacts

Below are listed useful contact points that can assist if you experience Domestic Violence or Abuse.

Victim Support

Victim Support is an independent voluntary organisation offering information, practical help and emotional support to victims of crime, including domestic abuse. Telephone 01856 877554.

Women's Aid Orkney

Women's Aid Orkney is based at 18 Queen Street Kirkwall, which is next to the Orkney Enterprise building. Tel: 01856 877900.

For additional information on Women's Aid Orkney please see the Related Sites section.

Samaritans

The Samaritans provides confidential non-judgemental emotional support, 24 hours a day for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which could lead to suicide. National helpline - Tel: 08457 90 90 90.

For additonal information on the Samaritans please see the Related Sites section.

Orkney Counselling and Support Centre

The Strynd, Kirkwall – Tel: 01856 873937

Housing Division

Orkney Islands Council Housing division can help with emergency accommodation: Tel:  01856 873535

Police

Kirkwall Police Station, Burgh Road, Kirkwall, Orkney, KW15 1AH: Telephone:  01856 872241

Citizens Advice Bureau

Anchor Buildings, 6 Bridge Street, Kirkwall: Telephone: 01856 875266