White Ribbon Day – Supporting survivors of domestic abuse

Home should be a safe place, but sadly we know this is not true for everyone. This White Ribbon Day, the Council is continuing to support survivors and their families of domestic abuse.

As residents are being asked to stay at home once again to reduce the spread of COVID-19, we know many people may be at greater risk. Our dedicated Camden Safety Net team are providing additional support such as more frequent contact with those at risk as well as developing robust safety plans, as we know that survivors and families of domestic abuse might be feeling more unsafe during the national lockdown, especially if they are staying at home with an abuser.

As well as the confidential advice offered by Camden Safety Net, which also includes counselling, advice on benefits and family law, the Council has wide-ranging support available, including mental health support and employment support, in order to help people at risk of or experiencing domestic abuse to rebuild their lives. 

To mark White Ribbon Day, Camden Women’s Forum are also launching their second inquiry, into preventing and tackling domestic abuse in Camden. The inquiry will collect evidence from women who have experienced domestic abuse. The forum will also work with local and national support organisations, healthcare and probation services, schools and the voluntary and community sector to understand the issues surrounding domestic abuse, and what needs to change or improve in supporting those affected by abuse.

Check back soon for opportunities to get involved at camden.gov.uk/womensforum

Cllr Angela Mason, Cabinet Member for Best Start for Children and Families said:

“Today on White Ribbon Day, I’d like to call on our strong communities to work together, look out for one another and help keep everyone safe. This could mean being a good neighbour and signposting survivors of domestic abuse and their families to the right support, or contacting our support services yourself when you know something is not right.

As the Cabinet Lead for Camden Council’s Domestic Abuse Policy and the Deputy Chair of Camden Women's Forum, I am proud of the work we are doing in Camden to combat domestic violence and abuse and support people who have experienced it. In January the Council published our commitment to making Camden a place where domestic violence and abuse is unacceptable and to mobilise all the resources of the council to prevent abuse and support victims and children. The report of the actions that all services are taking will go to cabinet in the spring.’

But as always, there is more to do. Domestic violence is an issue that disproportionately affects women and girls, and our next Women's Forum inquiry will go a long way to helping us understand what needs to change and improve further in supporting people who have experienced domestic violence and abuse.

Being at home should be a safe place for everyone; if it’s not, please know you are not alone, and we are here to support you.”

Cllr Meric Apak, Cabinet Member for Better Homes added:

“We will never tolerate domestic violence or abuse in our council homes and we are truly committed to supporting survivors and their families affected by domestic abuse in every way we can.

Council tenants experiencing abuse should never feel they have to leave the family home to escape violence, or remain with their abuser because of a lack of other housing options. As a landlord, we are here and we can help. Meanwhile, any abuser living in a Camden council home risks losing their tenancy.”

How to access support

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, of any form, or you are worried about a friend or relative’s relationship, please contact:

Camden Safety Net

Mon-Fri 9am-5pm

Tel: 0207 974 2526

Email: [email protected]

In an emergency always call 999, or for non-emergency matters with which you require police assistance please call 101.

Some other helpful numbers:

The National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 247

North London Rape Crisis: 0808 082 9999

The Haven: 0203 312 1101

For more information and support on domestic violence, including information on spotting the key signs of domestic abuse or unhealthy relationships head to camden.gov.uk/domestic-violence

Read the latest information and advice on the Coronavirus at camden.gov.uk/COVID-19

Other support available from the Council and other organisations

• If you’re feeling anxious and/or worried about your mental health, call your GP. If you prefer, you can find help at icope.nhs.uk.
• Whatever you’re going through, Samaritans are there to listen – phone 116 123.
• If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, phone the 24-hour crisis line at St Pancras Hospital on 020 3317 6333
• For confidential online wellbeing and mental health support for young people aged 11 to 18, visit camdenrise.co.uk/emotional-wellbeing
• Visit camden.gov.uk/mental-health-and-wellbeing to find out about more support available, including advice in other languages.
• If you're feeling worried about your child, or you want to make a change in your life, Camden Early Help can help, visit camden.gov.uk/early-help-for-children-and-families
• If you’re struggling to find work and need support visit: goodwork.camden.gov.uk

Make a pledge

Add your name to our pledge and show your commitment to never commit, condone, or remain silent about domestic abuse. Together we can help to break the stigma, raise awareness and generate a shared sense of responsibility. Visit camden.gov.uk/dv-pledge

Support the Mayor’s nominated charity

Solace Women’s Aid offer free confidential advice and support to women and children in London affected by abuse. Solace Women’s Aid also provide two refuge services in Camden providing 33 beds for women and children who need a safe place to stay.

To make a donation please visit the Mayor's Justgiving page.