If you are experiencing abuse, or are worried about someone else, it can be hard to know where to start. These organisations offer confidential support, practical help and ways to talk things through. Some focus on domestic abuse, some on sexual violence, and Safe Spaces is specifically for abuse connected to a church context.

National Domestic Abuse Helpline

The National Domestic Abuse Helpline offers confidential, non-judgemental support for women experiencing domestic abuse, along with information about their options. It is available 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247, and the website also offers live chat for people who find it difficult to use the phone. The helpline can help with safety planning, refuge access and finding other specialist services.

Rape Crisis

Rape Crisis England and Wales supports anyone aged 16 and over who has been affected by rape, sexual abuse, sexual violence or sexual harassment, no matter when it happened. Its 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line is available free on 0808 500 2222, and the website also offers online chat and a directory of local Rape Crisis centres.
 

Image
Advice and Debt (square)

Refuge

Refuge is the UK’s largest specialist domestic abuse organisation and supports women and their children with the physical, emotional, financial and practical impacts of abuse. It runs the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247 and also provides wider support through its own services, including advice for people worried about someone they care about.
 

Safeline

Safeline is a specialist charity working to prevent sexual abuse and support those affected to cope and recover. It describes its services as free, independent and confidential, and says it supports anyone affected by or at risk of sexual abuse. Its contact page invites people needing help to get in touch by phone on 01926 402 498 or by email at office@safeline.org.uk. It also runs the National Male Survivor Helpline on 0808 800 5005.

Safe Spaces

Safe Spaces is a free, independent support service for adults aged 18 and over who have experienced abuse within the Church of England, the Catholic Church in England and Wales, or the Church in Wales, or abuse linked to their relationship with those churches. It offers emotional support, practical help and advocacy, and can be contacted on 0300 303 1056, by webchat, or by email at SafeSpaces@Firstlight.org.uk during its opening hours.

These services offer different kinds of support. Some are aimed at urgent help and safety, some at specialist survivor support, and Safe Spaces may be particularly relevant where abuse is linked to church life.