Does your partner or ex-partner put you down all the time?

Do they make you feel like everything is your fault, control what you wear, who you see or what you spend? Do they physically hurt you or make you do things you don’t want to do?

If you recognise any of this, Scotland’s Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline is available 24/7 to talk to you.

Domestic abuse can start at any point in a relationship, or after a relationship has ended. The person abusing you can try to control and dominate you by creating fear and undermining you. They choose to behave this way and it is never your fault.

You may think that nobody else you know is experiencing this, or that you won’t be believed if you tell anyone. We will always believe you and listen to you. The Helpline is free and 100% confidential. The team will not pressure you to make any decisions.

You can call us on 0800 027 1234. You can also email us at helpline@sdafmh.org.uk or chat to us on webchat at www.sdafmh.org.uk.

If you are looking for one-to-one support in your local area, Argyll and Bute Women’s Aid are here for you. Sandra Paton, Manager of Argyll and Bute Women’s Aid, says:

“Our support workers can offer you practical and emotional support and information on issues like personal safety, housing, benefits and legal issues. We also have children and young people’s workers available to offer specialist support. Our service is available for one off telephone calls, or ongoing telephone or face-to-face support and we will always listen, understand and believe what you tell us. Regardless of your local area code, you can contact us on 01369 706636.”

Reaching out can be difficult, but we are here for you and you are not alone. One caller to the Helpline, when asked what they would say to someone else thinking about reaching out, said:

“Don’t worry – there are good people behind that phone. They are ready to help and support you at any time.”

Help is available. We’re ready when you are.