As leaders in our field, Jones Myers is passionate about promoting the need for improvements to the family justice system which always put children’s best interests first.

Jones Myers Family Lawyer, Laura Sargeant from our Children’s Team, has played a key role in helping to organise an informative family law conference covering vital issues to change current laws – and ensure victims and survivors of domestic abuse receive help when they most need it.

Baroness Hale, the Supreme Court’s esteemed first female President who has been pivotal in ensuring children’s voices are heard and their rights protected, was among key speakers at the York and North Yorkshire Family Justice Board Conference.

Attendees also heard Claire Throssell MBE movingly share how her sons, aged 12 and 9, were murdered by their father in 2014, after a court gave him five hours of unsupervised weekly contact. Since joining forces with Women’s Aid in 2016, Claire has campaigned tirelessly for change.  

Dame Nicole Jacobs, Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales, then highlighted her office’s role in striving to making family courts a safer place for victims of domestic abuse.

Presenters also spanned local judges and representatives from Inspire North and ‘For Baby’s Sake,’ a charity helping families to break the cycles of domestic abuse. Members of the Family Justice Young People’s Board joined the conference remotely to share how their guide aims to keep children and young people at the centre of court proceedings.

Attendees included 120 local solicitors, members of the local judiciary, barristers, social workers, and representatives from local volunteer organisations including IDAS, Inspire North and Citizens Advice. The event was compered by Victoria Kilpatrick, a specialist in public and private law proceedings, from the main sponsor, Dere Street Barristers. 

Along with fellow committee members, Laura, who is Chair of the Training Sub-Committee for the North and North Yorkshire Family Justice Board and representative for the local public law solicitors, volunteered eight months of her time outside work to plan the annual forum.

Said Laura: “Thank you to them, our attendees and to everyone,  including Dere Street Barristers and mini sponsors National Legal Service, Jones Myers and Ramsdens, who helped to make the thought-provoking conference a great success.”

For queries on divorce and family law, call 0113 246 0055 (Leeds) 01423 276104 (Harrogate), 202550 (York). Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked 5th among the UK’s Best 20 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2026

Pictured left to right is Dame Nicole Jacobs, Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales, Claire Throssell MBE and Laura Sargeant  

The post Why we champion changes for the better in family law appeared first on Jones Myers.

A new series ‘Rising Talent’ puts the spotlight on our junior lawyers – sharing insights into their aspirations, challenges and what makes them tick.

Recently qualified Family Lawyer, Lauren Warford, shares how she was bowled over by the enormous impact our Children’s Team had on clients’ lives when she started working with them in 2018.

“Seeing the team in action intrigued me – their work always seemed really varied and interesting. It can be fast paced and challenging but ultimately makes a huge difference to the lives of our clients and their families which is really rewarding.”

Dealing with sensitive and challenging issues, Lauren represents clients in private law and public law cases  and domestic abuse victims 

“Disputes about child arrangements following separation can make client’s lives feel really chaotic. I find it really satisfying to help them reach arrangements that bring peace to families who can then look to the future.

“Helping domestic abuse victims obtain Non Molestation Orders (NMOs) is important because there is often so much for them to consider and handling it alone feel be overwhelming. Supporting, guiding and assisting clients though applications for injunctions is one small way lawyers can help. No one should have to live in fear of abuse and NMOs are often an important first step towards victims of domestic abuse being able to move on with their lives with confidence.” 

Passionate about legal aid being available for those most in need, Lauren is a champion of present legislation being clarified and updated. 

“Current laws are very confusing and need clarification on who is entitled to legal aid. While we are always happy to assess if clients qualify for funding, eligibility is restricted. If it was expanded, more people could benefit from legal advice and representation when navigating important family law disputes.”

Lauren’s key tip for those contemplating a career in family law is to get practical experience while studying  

“Working as a paralegal at Jones Myers enabled me to see how the law and skills I learned are  used by senior solicitors every day. Practical experience is vital – even a week’s work experience or a day shadowing a solicitor would be beneficial. You can learn so much from  family lawyers who are really supportive and keen to share their stories and insights.”

Due to the nature of her work, Lauren admits that achieving a work/life balance can be illusive  

“The balance is so important – but not always easy. My work is rewarding but intense and can take over if you let it. I have definitely fallen into the trap of skipping lunch, working late to finish documents or checking emails on weekends to get caught up.

“But ultimately I know I write better documents when I am fed and hydrated, and give clearer advice when I am well rested, so I try to look after my health and make sure to save some time to spend with my partner, family and friends too, so that I can show up to work feeling my best.

“I unwind by reading. Escaping into another world makes for a great wind down. I also enjoy yoga and gardening and look forward to sunny evenings in my little garden this summer.”

For queries on divorce and family law, call 0113 246 0055 (Leeds) 01423 276104 (Harrogate), 202550 (York). Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked 5th among the UK’s Best 20 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2026

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By Laura Sargeant, Jones Myers Family Law Solicitor

In February, thoughts often turn to romance with messages about Valentine’s Day circulating everywhere on social media and in every shop on the high street.

It’s easy to be drawn into the hype and see our own relationships or potential relationships through the lens of what the marketing tells us love should be like.

In reality, relationships aren’t always a fairy tale where we get charmed off our feet by the likes of Benedict Bridgerton or Jeremiah Fisher.

A gift of flowers or chocolates and a card professing unending love can be very thoughtful, but what if they are done to excess (a practice known as ‘love bombing’) or are sent in an attempt to ‘make up’ following an incident of physical or verbal abuse?

It can be hard to see the signs that a relationship is abusive. This is partly because the abusive partner is often very good at hiding what they do and deflecting attention away from their actions. It is also partly because we can find it hard to accept that the person we think loves us and who we think we love could be capable of abusing us.

Although the signs of domestic abuse are wide ranging, and whilst the below is not an exhaustive list, they can include elements of the following:

• Physical – hitting, slapping, hair pulling, pushing, strangulation, throwing objects at you;
• Verbal – this can range from loud verbal attacks, swearing and name calling to more subtle verbal abuse such as making derogatory comments about your appearance;
• Sexual – is your consent to sexual activity sought? Are you being forced to have sex when you don’t want to or manipulated into engaging in sexual activities you don’t enjoy?
• Threats – are you or members of your family being threatened with violence if you fail to comply with what your partner wants?
• Financial – does your partner control all the finances in the relationship and this isn’t by mutual, fully informed agreement? Does your partner take money from you or spend money in a way that puts you in financial difficulty?
• Control – does your partner always want to know exactly where you’re going and who with and do they check up on you throughout? Do they harass and follow you or check your phone messages? Do they dictate what you wear?
• Isolation – are you prevented from spending time with your family and friends either overtly or through more subtle means such as by your partner telling you your family are awful and you shouldn’t be spending time with them?

If you think you might be experiencing domestic abuse in your relationship there are lots of organisations who you can reach out to for specialist support including IDAS (www.idas.org.uk), the biggest specialist domestic abuse charity in Yorkshire.

At Jones Myers our paramount consideration is securing your safety, and we are trained in spotting the signs that there may be domestic abuse in a relationship.

Our highly experienced family lawyers can provide you with specialist help and advice regarding leaving a relationship and any protective orders that may need to be put in place for you or your children such as non-molestation or occupation orders.

For queries on domestic abuse or family law, call 0113 246 0055 (Leeds) 01423 276104 (Harrogate), 202550 (York). Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet 01904 @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked 4th among the UK’s Best 20 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2026

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By Jones Myers Partner, Anthony Parrish

Jones Myers is supporting a global campaign to raise awareness of domestic violence which can have a profound impact on victims.

The initiative, called 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence, starts on November 25th, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and finishes on International Human Rights Day on December 10th.

Domestic violence occurs in all levels of society – regardless of race, gender, wealth, or age. The campaign brings together individuals, organisations, and communities to promote a world free from domestic violence.

Victims of its devastating effects – which can be emotional, physical, or sexual – feel wide-ranging negative emotions such as anger, shame, fear, isolation, resentment with many self-harming.

Many parents who are subjected to domestic violence are also anxious of its impact on children, fearing that they too can become targets.

If you are a victim, Jones Myers can provide legal assistance to victims and their families who require protection from their abusers.

With extensive experience in high conflict cases, we help victims to take out emergency applications and injunctions.

They include a Non-Molestation Order and an Occupation Order made by the Court which protects you and your children from abuse or harassment by your partner or spouse and prevents them from living in your home.

In confidential consultations, our highly skilled and sensitive family law specialists discuss all your options and advise on the way forward.

Organisations which assist with domestic violence include IDAS, Yorkshire’s largest specialist charity. Supporting those affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence, it also offers a free online Live Chat support for survivors. Visit www.idas.org.uk

For queries on any aspect of domestic violence or family law, call us at Leeds 0113 246 0055, Harrogate 01423 276104, or York 01904 202550. Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked ninth among the UK’s Best 25 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2024.

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By Jones Myers Partner, Anthony Parrish

New research has revealed just shy of one in six people in Britain have suffered economic or financial abuse at the hands of their partner.

Aviva’s study found 40% of British people are victims of such abuse, with spouses and partners being the perpetrator in 39% of those cases. Other common perpetrators include friends, parents, siblings, colleagues, and employers.

Jones Myers was invited to produce an article on how victims can apply to get their abusive spouse/partner to leave the home. You can read the article in full below. 

  Sadly, we work with many clients who, along with their children, are victims of domestic abuse.

Some flee the spousal home with little more than the clothes they stand up in while others stay and suffer in silence – because they fear losing any legal rights they may have.     

It is vital that you know there are injunctions you can take out which entail the Court making an order protecting you and your children from abuse or harassment by your partner/spouse and prevent them from living in your home.  

Non-Molestation Order

An FL401 form enables you to apply for a Non-Molestation Order, which forbids your spouse/partner from:

• Coming to, or near, your home

• Using or threatening violence against you and your children

• Intimidating, harassing, or pestering you and your children
• Going to places such as schools that you and your children visit regularly.
• Send/engage in threatening communication through letter, telephone, text message, or other means of communication ( including social media).
• Not to instruct or encourage a third party to do any of the above on their behalf.

Occupation Order

The same form can also be used to apply for an Occupation Order, where the court decides who should live in, or return to, the home or any part of it.

Depending upon your circumstances, you can apply for a non-molestation order, an occupation order – or both.

The application does not require court fees. If a family lawyer assists you with the application, you pay for their fees.  Legal Aid is available for applications of this nature provided the required thresholds for qualification are met.

Key Factors the Court Will Consider 

• The housing needs/resources of you and your spouse/partner and children

• Your respective finances
• Your behaviour to each other   
• The likely impact of a Court order/decision not to exercise its powers, on the health/safety/wellbeing of you, your spouse/partner and your children

Considerations for Married Couples

If you were married and have no existing right to occupy the property, the Court will also examine:

• The length of time since you last lived together

• How long ago your marriage was dissolved
• If any current legal proceedings exist between you for a financial order following your divorce, or for an order under Schedule 1 Children Act 1989 for financial relief or relating to the legal or beneficial ownership of the property.

Considerations for Cohabitees

If you are living with your partner and have no existing right to occupy the property, the Court will examine:

• If you have any children together or if you have, or have had, parental responsibility for any children (stepchildren, godchildren etc)
• If an Order is made in your favour, it could be for a specified period – often six months – or until another Court Order is made. In some situations, the Order can be renewed for another six months.

The protection the court offers is available to married, divorced, cohabiting and former cohabiting couples along with those in civil partnerships.

Jones Myers highly skilled and sensitive family law specialists has extensive expertise in helping victims of victims of domestic violence and abuse, or threatened violence to protect themselves and their loved ones.

We understand that domestic abuse occurs in all levels of society – regardless of race, gender, wealth or age.

In confidential consultations we discuss all your options and advise on the way forward, including court applications for an injunction as outlined above.

We can also suggest other organisations who can help you outside the legal process.  

For advice on domestic violence or family law related issues, contact myself or Jane Bolton on 0113 246 0055 jm2023.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet @helpwithdivorce

For more information on the FL401 form, visit the Government website

Jones Myers blog is ranked 10th in the UK’s Best 25 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2023.

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Image courtesy of IDAS

As a niche family law firm, the devastating effects of domestic abuse on victims are something Jones Myers sadly witnesses at first hand.

Our commitment to raising awareness of this major issue includes featuring topical articles and advice on our blog. We have also partnered with leading charity IDAS (Independent Domestic Abuse Services) to host a pioneering art installation which symbolised the 100 plus women killed every year in the UK by their current or ex-partner.

IDAS Chief Executive, Sarah Hill, explains how the effects of domestic abuse vary from person to person – and depend on each individual’s experience. She says the effects can become worse over time and can take a long time to recover from.

Emotional: The most common feature of living in an abusive relationship is suffering emotional or psychological abuse. The effects of this are extremely harmful.

Emotional abuse includes name calling, being constantly put down, having someone control what you do or what you wear, being isolated from friends and family, making you feel you are responsible for the abuse, criticising parenting, threatening family or friends, or making unreasonable demands.

Experiencing some, or all of, these things will have an effect on self-esteem and confidence levels, cause depression and feelings of worthlessness and can lead to eating disorders or psychosomatic illnesses.

Physical: Some people who are living in abusive relationships will never or rarely be victims of physical violence and some will experience it regularly.

Many people who experience physical violence live with painful injuries that go undiagnosed and sometimes they are prevented from seeking medical help. Research also shows that physical violence can escalate in a relationship. In extreme cases physical violence can lead to murder – two women a week are killed by a current or ex-partner.

It is important to remember that physical violence is only one indicator of domestic abuse and may not be the main feature of the abusive relationship.

Sexual: For many people living in a violent relationship, sexual abuse occurs on an occasional or regular basis. This can include rape, putting pressure on you to take part in things you don’t feel comfortable with and/or forcing you to have sex with other people. This can increase the chances of you contracting a sexually transmitted illness, cause physical injury and has serious emotional effects.

Other effects of living with domestic abuse can include suffering financial hardship, losing employment and potential homelessness. You can watch a video about the effects of domestic abuse here.

IDAS is the largest specialist charity in Yorkshire supporting people affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence. It is the first organisation in the UK to develop a free online Live Chat support for survivors. For more information, visit www.idas.org.uk 

For queries on any aspect of family law, call us at Leeds 0113 246 0055, Harrogate 01423 276104, or York 01904 202550. Visit jm2023.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce Jones Myers blog is ranked 9^th in the UK’s Best 25 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2022.

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By Jones Myers Family Law Solicitor, Jane Bolton

The issue of coercive control and its devastating effect on victims has been re-enforced in a landmark High Court case where the term ‘gaslighting’ appears in a published judgement for the first time.

Coercive control has been a criminal offence in England and Wales since 2015. It happens when someone personally connected to you displays controlling and manipulative behaviour to make you feel controlled, dependent, isolated, or scared.

Gaslighting is a form of coercive control used to distort victims’ sense of reality and lower their self-esteem. The term originates from a 1938 play ‘Gaslight’ where a husband’s manipulation of his wife includes dimming gaslights and telling her she is hallucinating. It also affects all sectors of society.

The recent High Court case centres around a woman who had been raped and abused by her partner. The father of her child and a mental health care worker, he convinced her family and health professionals that she had bipolar disorder.

The case went to the Court of Appeal after a judge in an initial ruling warned the mother that, if she continued with her claims or rape and abuse, her child would be taken into care and adopted. He also issued a consent order setting out time when the father could see his child.

However High Court Judge, Mr Justice Cobb, decreed that the mother was a vulnerable and naïve woman who had been subjected to emotional control/coercion. He also said there was no clear medical evidence that she suffered from bi-polar.

Agreeing that the use of the term gaslighting by the mother’s representative, human rights lawyer Dr Charlotte Proudman, was ‘apposite,’ Mr Justice Cobb said, ‘the father’s conduct represented a form of insidious abuse designed to cause the mother to question her own mental well-being, indeed her sanity.’  

It is a major step forward that this case sets a precedent for the use of the term gaslighting in the family courts and is instrumental in highlighting public awareness of coercive control.

Latest Government statistics reveal the volume of recorded domestic abuse-related crimes in England and Wales continues to rise with 845,734 reported cases in the year ending March 2021. This represents a six per cent increase on the previous year.

The effect of these crimes on victims includes anger, shame, fear, isolation, resentment, psychological problems, self-harm, and feelings of powerlessness. Many worry that their children can also become targets of abuse.

As a firm which witnesses the devastating effect of domestic abuse on victims, our skilled and sensitive family law specialists can help victims of abuse, or threatened violence, to protect themselves and their loved ones.

We encourage anyone who is in this position to talk to us about the issues they are facing. We can assist with decisions regarding their relationship and refer them to fellow professionals including counsellors.

If you are concerned about coercive control, gaslighting, domestic abuse or any aspect of family law, call us at Leeds on 0113 246 0055, Harrogate on 01423 276104, or York on 01904 202550. Visit jm2023.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

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By Jones Myers Senior Family Law Executive Anna Sutcliffe

It’s a distressing but historical fact that, whilst most of us are looking forward to Christmas, the festive season is a period dreaded by many victims of domestic abuse.

The volume of reported incidents involving domestic abuse and applications for Non-Molestation Orders rises as enforced togetherness puts pressure on relationships. This is often made worse by more frequent opportunities to drink alcohol and, last year and this, by pandemic lockdown restrictions.

This article highlights the circumstances in which they can seek a Non-Molestation Order. 

What is a Non-Molestation Order?

A Non-Molestation Order is a type of injunction that victims of domestic abuse can apply for.

It prevents your abuser from threatening or inflicting further violence or threatening behaviour upon you.

How do I get a Non-Molestation Order?

It is only possible to apply for a Non-Molestation Order if you can prove that you fall under the category of being an associated person.

This means that your relationship with the person against whom you are seeking the Order must fall within one of the following seven categories:-

• you have been – or are – married to each other
• you have agreed to marry each other
• you have been, or are in, a cohabiting relationship
• you have lived together but not by way of a tenant, lodger, boarder or employee you are having, or have had, an intimate personal relationship with each other which is or was of significant duration
• you are related
• you are parents to a child or the associated person has Parental Responsibility for your child
• you are parties to the same family proceedings (i.e proceedings about children contact etc)

You will then need to complete an application FL401 and prepare a statement telling the Court what has happened and asking for the relevant Order.

The statement should include a Statement of Truth at the end of the document and be dated. If the abuser doesn’t know your address you can apply for it to remain confidential by completing a C8 form.

What if I need an Order urgently?

You can apply for an emergency Order which can be granted by the Court – without giving your abuser notice – for your immediate protection.

After that an “on notice” hearing – giving you and the abuser notice of hearing – will be listed on the first available date so the offender has an opportunity to address the Court. ;

Can I speak to my ex if I have a Non-Molestation Order?

These issues will be addressed by the Court. It is a normal for communication to be allowed in some way when children are involved but this is normally limited to “correspondence about arrangements for children only” or “correspondence through the Applicant’s Solicitors in respect of child arrangements.

What happens if a Non-Molestation Order is breached?

Breaching a Non-Molestation Order is a criminal offence and the abuser can be arrested and imprisoned for up to 5 years.

How do I get a Non-Molestation Order extended or removed?

Courts usually grant a Non-Molestation Order for 12 months. You can apply for it to be extended or removed by writing to the Court in person, explaining the current situation along with why you want the Order lengthened or removed, and the benefit to you of doing so.

For queries on Non-Molestation orders, divorce or family law related issues, call us at Leeds on 0113 246 0055, Harrogate on 01423 276104, or York on 01904 202550. Visit jm2023.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

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By Kate Banerjee, Head of Jones Myers Children’s Department

Charities are warning that domestic abuse will have rocketed by almost 40% following England’s defeat in the penalty shootout again Italy in the Euro 2020 final.  

The National Centre for Domestic Violence has reported that domestic violence increased by 26% when England played in the championships – rising to 38% if they lost a game. Studies highlight that alcohol is the major cause for the surge.  

Every hour of every day police throughout England and Wales receive over 100 calls connected with domestic abuse. 

The Euros final has re-enforced just how urgently  action is needed and Jones Myers welcomes the Government’s pledge to do more to help victims.

Anyone experiencing violence or abuse can contact Jones Myers in the strictest confidence.

Our specialist lawyers will explain to you all the options available to help keep you safe, including applying to the court for an injunction to protect you and your children including, in some situations, orders barring abusers from the family home.

These orders are available whether you are married, divorced, are or were living together as well as in civil partnerships.

The organisations listed below provide invaluable support for those in need:

National 

National Centre for Domestic Violence https://www.ncdv.org.uk free assistance Text 60777 or tel 0800 970 2070.

The  Silent Solution Awareness Campaign #MakeYourselfHeard – Silent Solution awareness campaign | Independent Office for Police Conduct enables 999 mobile callers too scared to make a noise, or speak, to press 55 when prompted to inform police they are in a genuine emergency.

Supportline  https://supportline.co.uk  for those isolated, at risk, vulnerable and victims of any form of abuse. Helpline 01708 765200 or email info@supportine.org.uk  

The National Domestic Abuse Helpline – https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/ offers help round the clock Call 0808 2000 247.

Women’s Aid https://www.womensaid.org.uk live chat 10am-6pm seven days a week

Refuge – freephone 24-Hour Helpline 0808 2000 247 or visit www.nationalhelpline.org.uk  for live chat (Monday-Friday 3pm-1pm). Guidance also provided on securing technology against hacking.

National Men’s Advice Line  – Helpline for male victims of domestic abuse – telephone and email support (Monday-Friday 9am-8pm, webchats Wednesday– Friday 10am-11am and 3pm-4pm). Call0808 801 0327.

Mankind – https://mankind.org.uk support for male victims of domestic abuse and domestic and their wider circles. Call 01823 334244

Yorkshire

IDAS – https://idas.org.uk Yorkshire’s largest specialist charity for those affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence. info@idas.org.uk

03000 110 110 (North Yorkshire and Barnsley), 0808 808 2241 (Sheffield), 01904 646630 (York Refuge), 01904 646636 (York Outreach)

Leeds Domestic Violence Service – https://ldvs.uk/, combines Leeds Women’s Aid, Behind Closed Doors and Women’s Health Matters. 24 hour helpline, call 0113 246 0401

Leeds Women’s Aid refuges –  https://leedswomensaid.co.uk Support services through the Community Domestic Violence Team via telephone/FaceTime.

Leeds Survivor-Led Crisis Service – http://www.lslcs.org.uk  Support via telephone and Zoom 6pm-2am 0808 800 1212, 0113 260 9328 or by text 07922 249452 Survivor.led@lslcs.org.uk

Support After Rape and Sexual Violence Leeds – Remote support available by text and email 12-2pm Tuesday – Thursday 07860022880 support@sarsvl.org.uk

Together Women Project – One to one telephone support with key workers 9-5 daily

Bradford: 01274 301470, Leeds: 0113 3808900, Hull: 01482 218125, Sheffield: 0114 275 8282

Supporting Victims – https://www.supportingvictims.org/help/, North Yorkshire, call 01609 643100, 9am-5pm weekdays help@suportingvictims.org    

Call us at Leeds on 0113 246 0055, Harrogate on 01423 276104, or York on 01904 202550. Visit jm2023.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

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As the coronavirus lockdown continues, Jones Myers skilled and sensitive family law specialists continue to help victims of domestic violence and abuse, or threatened violence, to protect themselves, their children and loved ones.

We have published guidelines from a campaign called The Silent Solution system – launched by the Independent Office for Police Conduct and supported by Women’s Aid – to enable a 999 mobile caller who is too scared to make a noise, or speak, to press 55 when prompted – to inform police they are in a genuine emergency.

The following is a list of domestic violence services that you can contact in case of crisis or for support:

Leeds Domestic Violence Service – https://ldvs.uk/
Combines Leeds Women’s Aid, Behind Closed Doors and Women’s Health Matters

24 hour helpline – 0113 246 0401

Leeds Women’s Aid refuges remain open

Support services through the Community Domestic Violence Team operating by telephone/FaceTime

Independent Domestic Violence Advocates still working and meeting face-to-face if necessary, conducting risk analysis on a case by case basis

Leeds Survivor-Led Crisis Service – Dial House
Support via telephone and Zoom 6pm-2am : 0808 800 1212 or 0113 260 9328 or by text 07922 249452
Email: Survivor.led@lslcs.org.uk

Support After Rape and Sexual Violence Leeds
Remote support available by text and email 12-2pm Tuesday – Thursday Telephone: 07860022880
Email: support@sarsvl.org.uk

Together Women Project
One to one telephone support with key workers 9-5 daily

Bradford: 01274 301470

Leeds: 0113 3808900

Hull: 01482 218125

Sheffield: 0114 275 8282

IDAS
Extended live-chat service 3pm-6pm Monday to Friday

(Dedicated chat for professionals, agencies and workers 10-12pm weekdays)

Online video support sessions, WhatsApp, telephone calls and email info@idas.org.uk

03000 110 110 (North Yorkshire and Barnsley)

0808 808 2241 (Sheffield)

01904 646630 (York Refuge)

01904 646636 (York Outreach)

Supporting Victims – North Yorkshire – Telephone: 01609 643100 

Open 9am-5pm weekdays

help@suportingvictims.org     https://www.supportingvictims.org/help/

Refuge – guidance on how to secure your technology against hacking and tracking at https://www.refuge.org.uk/our-work/forms-of-violence-and-abuse/tech-abuse-2/resources/

The National Domestic Abuse Helpline available 24/7 0808 2000 247 www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk

National Men’s Advice Line – 0808 801 0327

Make Yourself Heard – Silent Solution Guide when calling 999

For use when calling from a mobile only but unable to speak to the operator

Emergency Texts to 999

Allows users to send a text in an emergency rather than call 999 to speak to an operator. Text ‘register’ to 999 to sign up, must be registered to use.

https://northyorkshire.police.uk/contact/emergency-sms-text-service/

Advice from North Yorkshire Police safety planning https://northyorkshire.police.uk/what-we-do/tackling-crime/crimes-against-the-person/domestic-abuse/police-promote-support-available-for-those-in-isolation-with-an-abusive-partner/safety-steps-you-can-take/

•If it is an emergency and are at risk of harm – call the police on 999. If you are unable or too afraid to speak, you can use the Silent Solution system by pressing 55 when prompted by the call handler. Read more about this system and how to use it here.

•Think about safe spaces at home where you can take refuge. Try to avoid anywhere such as the kitchen or garage where there may be items which could be used against you. Is there a room where you can quickly and easily exit from, or a garden space you can take refuge in?

•Keep a mobile phone charged and at hand, so you can summon help quickly.

•Agree a time with a friend or neighbour that you will contact them each day, so you can keep in touch with someone and let them know you are ok.

•Agree a code word that you can text or use in a call with a friend or neighbour to raise an alarm so they can call the police for you.

•Speak to your children about where they can go to keep safe. Explain that they need to get to safety first and then raise the alarm. Getting involved in the situation may put them at risk of harm.

•Form an escape plan from the house and consider deciding a trigger word with your children that you can use to indicate to them when it’s time to leave the house. If you do need to leave the house and you are approached by the police, explain to them why you had to leave so they can help and safeguard you.

•If you can, keep bank cards or some cash and house or car keys in a safe and accessible place, in case you need to grab them in a rush.

•If you cannot leave – try to get to a room with a lock and call the police immediately.

Victims of violence or threatened violence seeking urgent legal advice can contact Jones Myers in the strictest confidence to discuss all the options available. Options include court applications for an injunction – to protect victims and any children and/or orders barring abusers from the family home.

The protection the court offers is available to married, divorced, cohabiting and former cohabiting couples – as well as those in civil partnerships.

Call us at Leeds on 0113 246 0055, Harrogate on 01423 276104, or York on 01904 202550. Visit jm2023.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

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