Legal Aid Navigator
Domestic abuse & safety
If someone is hurting you, controlling you, or making you afraid, you are not alone and support is available. This page explains what kind of help exists — it is not a substitute for speaking to a trained adviser.
What kind of support exists?
- Helplines — confidential phone, webchat or text support, day or night, from trained specialists.
- Refuge accommodation — emergency safe housing for people fleeing abuse, sometimes including pets.
- Injunctions and protective orders — a family court can, in some cases, make an order to help keep you safe from an abuser. A solicitor or adviser can explain whether this may apply to you.
- Legal aid — is more often available in cases involving domestic abuse, including for some family court matters. Use the official checker to find out.
- Practical and emotional support — from specialist charities, including help that's tailored to men, LGBT+ people, and specific communities.
This is general information, not a promise of what will happen in your situation. A specialist helpline adviser can talk through your options with you, in confidence.
Trusted services
National Domestic Abuse Helpline (Refuge)
Free, 24/7, confidential support for women experiencing domestic abuse, and information for friends and family.
Visit website (opens in a new tab)
Telephone: 0808 2000 247
GOV.UK: get help with domestic abuse
Official guidance on the support and legal protections available.
Civil Legal Advice
Check if you qualify for legal aid connected to domestic abuse, and get connected with a solicitor if you do.
Visit Civil Legal Advice (opens in a new tab)
Telephone: 0345 345 4 345
Citizens Advice
Free, confidential guidance on your options, including housing and legal steps.
Law centres
Free legal help from local, not-for-profit specialists, including protective court orders.
Support Through Court
Free, practical support for people representing themselves in court proceedings.
More specialist helplines — including support for men, LGBT+ people, and sexual violence — are listed on our Get help now page.
A few terms explained
- Non-molestation order
- A type of court order that can stop someone from threatening, harassing or being violent towards you.
- Occupation order
- A type of court order that can control who is allowed to live in, or enter, the family home.
- Refuge
- Safe, often confidential, emergency accommodation for people fleeing abuse.