Westmorland and Furness Council, in partnership with Victim Support, is introducing a free, confidential drop-in service in Penrith to support anyone affected by domestic abuse.
The regular drop-in sessions will be available throughout the year providing a safe and welcoming space for individuals over 16 years old to access information, support or advice about domestic abuse. These sessions are also open to professionals seeking guidance, resources, or support for individuals they are working with.
- Domestic abuse includes:
- violent or threatening behaviour
- controlling or coercive behaviour
- psychological and emotional abuse
- physical or sexual abuse
- financial abuse
- harassment or stalking
- online abuse
The service will be available at Penrith Library between 9.30am and 3.30pm on the first Monday of each month:
- 2 June
- 7 July
- 4 August
- 1 September
- 6 October
- 3 November
- 1 December
Victim Support are independent of the Police and statutory agencies, and provide non-judgemental support and advice, and can help with safety planning and/or identify other services that may be able to help you.
If you are attending a drop-in, please ask for Alice. You will then be taken to a private room to talk confidentially with Victim Support.
In an emergency, if someone is at risk or a crime is in progress, always dial 999.
Councillor Judith Derbyshire, Westmorland and Furness Council Cabinet Member for Housing and Community Safety, said:
“Domestic abuse does not discriminate and can affect anyone regardless of background, gender, sex, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, disability, or age.
“It's important for people to know they are not alone, and that help is available to them. We are committed to helping keep all our residents safe, healthy and independent, and these free drop-in sessions provide a safe space for people to speak in confidence and access support.
“There’s no need to book an appointment, just drop-in and ask for Alice.”