The Haven Wolverhampton launches the first Domestic Violence Helpline in Wolverhampton

On 6th April 2009 The Haven Wolverhampton, one of the largest independent charities in the UK, launched a new initiative designed to improve access to Domestic Violence support services for women and children in Wolverhampton.

It is estimated that 1 in 4 women in the UK will suffer Domestic Violence in their lifetime. An average of 2 women a week are killed by a partner, former partner or family member and Domestic Violence is recorded as being the highest cause of the deaths of women aged between 16 and 44, above cancer, road accidents and war.

A specialist helpline which will provide confidential guidance and support to women experiencing Domestic Violence in Wolverhampton is being piloted by The Haven Wolverhampton. The helpline is the first and only of its kind in the City and aspires to reach out to the many hundreds of women who may be suffering violence in their homes.

The Haven Wolverhampton, receives approximately 8000 calls to its referral line every year – over 150 calls a month. Over 1000 of these calls are for emergency accommodation.

Residential Services Director of The Haven, Michaila Tope, states “The demand on the Referral Line and pressure to respond to women in need of refuge is such that there is often little time to talk in depth with a woman who is undecided about what she should do next. For this reason we have decided to expand our service by having more staff on hand to respond to a greater number of calls. All staff working on the helpline will be specially trained and able to provide help, direction and encouragement.”

The helpline will be operated by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers who will provide advice and guidance to callers on the various options available to them. Helpline staff will liaise with relevant agencies in the City including Health personnel, Solicitors, Housing Services and other refuge providers as well as offer advice on legal options and welfare rights. Staff will also direct calls to The Haven’s Counselling, Advocacy support and The Community Support Team where a visit to the victim’s home can be arranged if needed.

Volunteer on helpline

 
 
To speak to someone on the helpline call 01902 713001
  
The helpline will operate from 9am to 5pm, with a referral line service available from 5pm to 9am.
Balloon release

 
Balloon Release
To mark the launch of The Haven Wolverhampton Helpline 300 balloons, printed with the Helpline number, were released into the air on Market Square, School Street, Wolverhampton.
The aim of the release was to get the message across to as many women, far and wide, that more is being done to support those experiencing Domestic Violence.
© 2009 The Haven Wolverhampton