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Domestic abuse support

We are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive community for all residents and recognising the profound impact domestic abuse can have on individuals and families.

At Cheltenham Borough Council (CBC), we recognise that domestic abuse can impact anyone and that seeking help can feel overwhelming. We are firmly committed to offering a confidential, sensitive, and supportive approach to all those affected—whether you're experiencing abuse yourself or supporting someone else.

What is domestic abuse?

The Government defines domestic abuse as "Any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional) between adults who are or have been intimate partners or family members"

Domestic abuse covers a range of harmful behaviours including physical violence, sexual abuse, psychological and emotional abuse, financial or economic control, coercive or controlling conduct, harassment, stalking, and digital violations. It affects people of any gender, age, religious belief, sexual orientation, race and disability.

Our commitment to you

Confidential support

Your privacy is our priority. Any information you share will be handled discreetly, with respect and empathy, to protect your safety and honour your trust.

Non-judgmental, survivor-centred service

We believe in empowering individuals—your honesty matters and will be met with compassion and understanding, free from blame or blame-shifting.

Holistic Guidance and Signposting

We’ll help you explore all available options of specialist support ensuring you’re never facing this alone.

Our commitment to you

Our commitment to you

Confidential support

Your privacy is our priority. Any information you share will be handled discreetly, with respect and empathy, to protect your safety and honour your trust.

Non-judgmental, survivor-centred service

We believe in empowering individuals—your honesty matters and will be met with compassion and understanding, free from blame or blame-shifting.

Holistic Guidance and Signposting

We’ll help you explore all available options of specialist support ensuring you’re never facing this alone.

Supporting you

You don't have to go through this alone. Whatever you’re facing, we’re here to listen, support, and guide you through every step. If you’re unsure what help is right for you, or want to talk something through in private, please contact us, we’ll treat you with sensitivity, dignity, and respect.

If you are being abused by a partner, ex-partner or family member you can get free and confidential advice from Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Support Service | GDASS

Children, young people and domestic abuse

It is emotionally damaging for children to live in a home where there is domestic abuse. People experiencing domestic abuse often worry what will happen to their children if they disclose it to someone. You will be supported to ensure that they are protected from the effects. There is help for you and your children to be safe and reduce the risk.

Read more on the local support services for victims to find links to support groups in Gloucestershire.

The Holly Gazzard Trust offers support to help young people recognise the warning signs of abuse and feel empowered to take action.  

Clare's Law - Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme

Clare’s Law enables members of the public to have a “Right to ask” police if their current partner poses a risk to them in terms of their history of domestic abuse. 

The scheme also enables professionals to raise a “Right to know” request through the police. It applies where they feel someone may be at risk of domestic abuse and they have some reasonable concern or knowledge about the individual’s past.

 

A right to ask can also be made by a third person, for example a parent, relative or friend who is concerned. In these cases if a disclosure is to be made, it will only be made to the potential victim of abuse.

For more information visit Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme.  

Your safety matters to us

If someone is hurting you, you might not want them to know you’ve visited this page. To help keep you safe, we’ve added a quick "Escape" button at the top of the page. Clicking it will instantly take you to a neutral site and clear any trace of this page from your browser history.

Using your home computer safely

If you are worried that someone might access your computer to see what you have been viewing online, please have a look at some tips on being safe online at reducing the risk online.

Getting help: the next steps

If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, please call 999.

For non-urgent support, we work closely with trusted local and national agencies to help you access the right services:

Read our domestic abuse policy

 

Other useful links

Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Strategy 

Improving access to social housing for victims of domestic abuse - GOV.UK  

© Cheltenham Borough Council 2026