Support for Families: Understanding Domestic Abuse

At Well Lane, the safety and wellbeing of our pupils and their families are our absolute priorities. We understand that home isn’t always a safe place, and we want you to know that you are not alone, and it is not your fault.

What is Domestic Abuse?

Domestic abuse isn’t always physical. It is a pattern of behaviour used to gain power and control over a partner or family member. This can include:

• Emotional & Psychological: Being put down, isolated from friends/family, or told what to wear.

• Physical: Shoving, hitting, or any physical harm.

• Economic: Controlling your money or preventing you from working.

• Coercive Control: A pattern of intimidation, surveillance, or threats.

 Immediate Danger

If you or your children are in immediate danger, please dial 999. * The "Silent Solution": If you are unable to speak on the phone, dial 999 and then press 55 when prompted. This alerts the operator that you are in danger but cannot talk.

Talk to Us

If you feel comfortable, you can speak to our Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), Mrs Kinnear, Mrs Ormond and Mrs Pye or any member of staff you trust.

We can offer a safe space to talk and help connect you with the right professional support.

The UK government's definition of domestic abuse is 'any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality. The abuse can encompass, but is not limited to, psychological, physical, sexual, economic, emotional'.

Click here for more information and services that support victims of domestic abuse.