| The Government defines domestic abuse as: Any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional) between adults who are or have been intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality Domestic abuse is a pattern of abusive and controlling behaviour through which the perpetrator seeks to exert power over the victim. Although the definition recognises adults as being 18 years or over, domestic abuse often overlaps with child abuse where children may witness and/or are victims of abuse. Domestic abuse cuts across race, gender, sexuality, age, class and geography. However, the majority of perpetrators are men and between 80-95% of those who experience it are women. Domestic abuse is a form of violence against women and a gross violation of human rights. It occurs in heterosexual relationships and in same-sex relationships. Accommodation for women at risk of domestic abuse has often been a high priority need for district and borough councils. In most districts and boroughs, a high proportion of those to whom the councils have a homelessness duty, are women at risk of domestic violence. Homelessness due to violent relationship breakdown is a main cause of homelessness in the High Peak area. Following the Homelessness Act 2002, this duty has extended to women without children. Good News Family Care is categorised as a domestic abuse support provider by Supporting People. This is a Government programme, introduced in 2003, which helps people to live more independently and to maintain their accommodation. In partnership with Supporting People we provide safe, supported accommodation, enabling women and children to leave abusive relationships and to gain respite or a 'stepping stone' to re-housing. It is sometimes difficult for women with complex problems - such as drug or alcohol misuse and domestic abuse - to be accommodated in refuges. Our recovery house provides a safe place together with the opportunity to deal with these problems. Return to home page |
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