Care and support

Getting help if you are being abused

In an emergency always dial 999. If you can, leave the phone off the hook so the operator can hear what is happening. (An emergency is when there is risk of injury or serious damage to property, or you suspect a crime is in progress, or there is a serious incident which needs immediate police attendance.)

In a non-emergency situation dial 0845 33 00 222 (available 24 hours a day, charged at local rate) or contact your local police station. To find your local station select the link called 'Hertfordshire Constabulary: Police Stations' on the right of this page under the 'External Links' section.

Hertfordshire Police have trained Domestic Violence Officers who can help you with legal matters, offer practical support and give expert advice. Calls are confidential and you don’t have to give your name. To find your local Domestic Violence Officer select the link called 'Hertfordshire Constabulary: Domestic Violence Officers' on the right of this page under the 'External Links' section.

If you call the police to your home they will act to protect you (and your children) from your abuser and may remove them from the property. If your abuser is charged, the police can ask for bail conditions to keep them away from you and your home until the court hearing. You will be asked to make a statement and any injuries will be recorded. You will get support from the police and Victim Support during the prosecution process. If your abuser is not charged, they may be cautioned and an informal record of the incident will be kept in case the abuse is repeated and you have to seek further assistance or an injunction.