What support is available to those experiencing domestic abuse?

Unfortunately domestic abuse is very common. The most important thing to remember is that you are not alone and there is lots of support within the University and from our community services to help you.

The Government definition of domestic violence and abuse is, 'Any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are or have been intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality'.

If you or someone you know has been injured you should seek immediate help. If you or anyone else is in danger or seriously injured, call 999 (or 112 from a mobile). If you are on campus, you can also contact Campus Safety (01483 683333).

You can also use the University’s Report + Support platform to let us know about abuse you, or someone you know, has experienced. Reports can be made anonymously or with contact details, and every report is taken seriously.

Safety and practical planning

Abuse can make you feel unsafe in your own home, relationships, or daily life. You do not need to face this alone. Professional services can help you make a safety plan. For example:

Thinking through safe places you could go in an emergency
Agreeing code words with a trusted friend or family member
Keeping copies of important documents somewhere safe
Making a plan for your children or dependants if relevant

The National Domestic Abuse Helpline and Men’s Advice Line provide further guidance around safety planning.

Specialist organisations

National Domestic Abuse Helpline (Refuge): 0808 2000 247. Support for anyone experiencing abuse 24/7
Women’s Aid: Support and safety planning resources for women and children
Men’s Advice Line: Confidential advice for male victims, including trans and non-binary people
ManKind Initiative: Helpline for men experiencing abuse
Galop: National LGBT+ Abuse Helpline and specialist support
Respond: Support for people with learning disabilities and autism who have experienced trauma or abuse
SignHealth: Specialist domestic abuse service for deaf people
SafeLives: UK-wide domestic abuse charity offering resources and advocacy
Karma Nirvana: Support around so-called honour-based abuse and forced marriage

University support

Sexual Violence Liason Officers (SVLOs): trained to support students affected by sexual violence and overlapping harms such as domestic abuse. They can help survivors think through options and connect with specialist domestic abuse services
Campus Safety: available 24/7 to talk through reporting options and safety planning
Harrassment and sexual misconduct (University of Surrey)
University of Surrey Students’ Union (USSU): is a free confidential, impartial service where students can get advice and information on academic and personal issues, including advice on procedures and representation at meetings
Centre for Wellbeing: the University’s team of professional counsellors, and mental health workers offers confidential support
Extenuating Circumstances: If you feel your studies have been affected by what has happened you can consider applying for extenuating circumstances (ECs).
Chaplaincy: faith, belief and spiritual support, including non-faith chaplains