Abuse, including neglect, can occur anywhere. The person causing the harm may be a stranger but more often than not it is someone known to the victim – someone in a position of trust or power such as a relative, health care professional or neighbour.

If you, or someone you know who is a Cottsway customer, is suffering physical, emotional, sexual or any other kind of abuse, neglect or coercive behaviour, we will support you.

How we can help

Depending upon the wishes of the victim and the seriousness of the situation, we will:

• Discuss the situation immediately with you
• Talk to the victim within 24 hours of receiving the report and investigate fully
• Work with relevant agencies involved such as the police or the local authority
• Review the security of the home if necessary
• Take appropriate legal action against the person causing the abuse
• Provide support to find alternative accommodation if needed
• Regularly keep in touch with you until the matter is resolved.

We must respect the wishes of the victim unless they or others are in immediate danger, they are incapable of making a decision themselves, or a criminal offence has been committed.

To report abuse or neglect please contact us

Other support

• The Survivor’s Handbook (Women’s Aid)
  0808 2000 247
  Provides information for women on a wide range of issues, such as housing, money, helping children and legal rights.
• Hourglass
  0808 8088141
  Works to challenge and prevent the abuse of older people, through the provision of services, training.
• Respect - men's advice line
  0808 8010327
  Helpline for male victims of domestic abuse.
• Citizens Advice
  0800 144 8848
  Offers free confidential advice online, over the phone or in person whoever you are and whatever your concern.
• Reducing the risk to domestic abuse
  0800 731 0055
  Develops and delivers services for those affected by domestic abuse in Oxfordshire.

Make a Stand - the national campaign