Domestic abuse is very common; approximately 1.3 million women suffer abuse in some form every year. It has a wide range of effects both physical and mental which if not addressed can have long term health consequences. Pregnancy can trigger an increase in the frequency and intensity of abuse and many women will experience it for the first time during their pregnancy.
We know that people suffering abuse often want help but feel they cannot speak out; this is why all health care staff have been trained to ask you about your relationship and if you feel safe at home. Midwives, GP’s and Health visitors will support you and your family offering advice and referral to a specialist worker if this is needed. They will not make decisions for you but offer guidance and information so that you can move forward together and keep yourself safe.
Please speak to your midwife if you need any support or call one of the help line numbers in the concertinas below.
PIPPA stands for ‘prevention, intervention and public protection alliance’. It is an alliance group of specialist sexual and domestic services in Southampton, working to end domestic and sexual violence and abuse.
Helpline: 09:30-16:30 Mon-Fri 02380 917 917 or Email: [email protected]
Free helpline open 24 hours a day.
Telephone number: 0808 2000 247
For more information, please click here.
