People who are Deaf are more at risk of domestic abuse than people who are hearing.
When sign language is the main way you communicate it can be very hard to get help.
If you are being abused, the DeafHope team are here to help you. We will help to find you and your children a safe place to stay, and then give you the help you need to rebuild your life and regain your confidence. Abuse is never right, and never your own fault. You do not need to put up with it. To ask for help contact us on the text number or email on this page.
BBC’s SeeHear programme looked at SignHealth’s domestic abuse service. They discussed why more Deaf women experience abuse compared to hearing women, and why our service is so important.
Jessie’s story
“I was suicidal, but thanks to Young DeafHope for the first time in seven years I feel like I have a future”
Contact us in secrecy
text 07970 350366
voice/minicom 020 8772 3241
fax 020 8772 3242
Concerns about your partner
What do you know about your partner? Are you concerned they might have been abusive in the past? You now have a legal right to find out. BSL information on Clare’s Law is available here.
Planning for safety
Deciding to leave your home can be a very difficult decision. If you think you might need to find safety in a hurry sometime in the future, make plans now.
Think of somewhere you can go to quickly and without warning. Maybe it’s to a friend, a family member, or a neighbour. Or think of somewhere you can quickly and safely use your mobile to text for help.
Have emergency numbers with you all the time. Put spare clothes, house keys, money and important documents somewhere safe which you can get to quickly. That could be with someone you trust.
A Refuge
A refuge is a safe place to stay where you won’t be found, You can move there with all your children under the age of 16, while you sort yourself out and work out what to do next.
How do you find one?
DeafHope will help you to find a place in a refuge if you need it. You can also ask the Police, Social Services, or Women’s Aid for help too.
What is a refuge like?
It’s a secure house, and most of them have security cameras, and 24 hour staff, to make sure the women and children staying there are safe. The house is shared with other women in the same position as you. You will have your own bedroom, and sometimes your own bathroom. The kitchen, lounge, and playrooms will be shared.
What help will you get?
A DeafHope team member will be assigned to work with you in sign language, giving you all the support you need to recover and start again. Refuge workers will help you access information and support to stop your partner abusing you and your children.