National domestic abuse helpline launched

Thousands of women experiencing domestic abuse will potentially benefit from a £2 million national domestic violence helpline, launched today by Comic Relief supporter and comedienne Dawn French.

The helpline, which is on a freephone telephone number 0808 2000 247, has attracted backing from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and charity organisation Comic Relief, and will be run by a partnership between Women's Aid and Refuge.

Merging the two existing numbers of Refuge and Women's Aid, the helpline will provide a single 24-hour freephone number with access to round the clock emergency refuge accommodation and information.

Minister for Homelessness in the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, Jeff Rooker, said the government was "committed to tackling domestic violence, an abhorrent crime which kills two women a week".

He said: "This vital new national helpline will help ensure the safety of thousands of women and children who are in danger at home because of a violent partner."

The Minister added: "Homelessness was as much about a woman and her children being pursued by a violent man from one address to another, as it is about the public image of a person sleeping on the street."

Comic Relief supporter Dawn French said: "No-one should live in fear of violence in their home. Calling for help takes courage and we hope this new freephone helpline will help women take that vital first step to a safer life. That is why Comic Relief is donating its single largest UK grant to this project."

Chief Executive of domestic violence charity Refuge Sandra Horley said a helpline often acted as the first and most crucial source of support.

Director of Women's Aid, Nicola Harwin, CBE said she the improved freephone service would also give more women and children access to help and support, as well as quicker referral to safe refuge in the Women's Aid national network.

A major advertising campaign will publicise the number in places easily accessible to women.

Research has indicated that abused women want a safe and easy way to receive information - calls from landlines will not appear on the telephone bill.

One in four women will experience domestic violence at some point during their lives, and it accounts for almost a quarter of violent crime. Women and children fleeing violent partners often become homeless and are forced to live in temporary accommodation.

Friends and families of anyone in danger of domestic abuse may also call the helpline for support.

(SP)