For the second year running user surveys for the Guildford Domestic Abuse Outreach Service have shown it makes a positive impact on beating domestic abuse.

Victims are often unaware of the support available to them and are afraid to seek help but the Outreach Service is here to help victims of domestic abuse.  Those who used the Service were asked to complete a questionnaire about the help they received and an encouraging 96% of victims rated the service to be good or very good.

Pauline, Domestic Abuse Outreach worker, commented: “This is the second year we have asked those who use our service what they think of the advice and support they receive and it is very rewarding to know that we are continuing to meet the needs of victims who come forward to seek our help.  

She added: “No one has to suffer in silence; they can pick up the phone and talk to us in confidence.  We are available Monday – Friday and can be reached on telephone number: 01483 577 392.”

Some users of the service have kindly agreed to let us publish some of their feedback comments as they want to help others know the enormous difference the Outreach Service can really make.

Respondent A: “If it wasn’t for their support I don’t think I would be where I am now emotionally, physically, or mentally.

Respondent B:  “Without this service I think I would have gone under. Thank you.”

Respondent C:  “I now have a lovely outreach worker I see regularly.  I didn’t expect such a great support.  I have one on one sessions and feel relieved just knowing there is someone there.”

Respondent D: “Thank you so much.”

The survey also reveals that users of the service appreciated the fact that they could either speak to the same person each time, or someone who was aware of their case, so they didn’t have to repeat the situation from scratch each time and more than 66% felt their situation had improved very soon after contacting the service.

Pauline added: “There are still lots of people out there who haven’t come forward -for a number of reasons – and we hope these survey results will encourage them to realise they are not alone.  Our service really can provide confidential support and advice.  So if you are being frightened, hurt or abused by a partner or family member (or know someone who is), please consider calling us and help make your life a happier one.”

For anyone who would like support or advice, please telephone the confidential helpline: 01483 577392 (between 9am and 3pm, or leave a message on the ansaphone).

Domestic abuse is often portrayed as physical abuse in the home, but in reality presents itself in a variety of often deep, complex and subtle ways.  The abuse can range from emotional, psychological or sexual and occurs irrespective of gender, class, sexuality, ethnic background, disabsility and age.  It usually takes place in the context of a family relationship, or between partners or ex-partners and involves the power and exercise of control by one person over another.

Dave Johnson, Chair of the Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership, said: “Safer Guildford is proud to have an Outreach service that continues to improve and be increasingly successful.  This survey is just one of the ways we can measure the positive difference that the service is making to lives of victims and their families, extended families and friends.  So we want more people to hear about the excellent support that these workers provide to help some very vulnerable people take back control of their lives."