Helpline

Helpline: FREEPHONE 0800 0732 606

The Helpline now has a minicom system: 0121 685 8519

Who can call the BSWA Helpline?
Anyone who thinks she may be suffering from domestic violence, or who knows someone else she thinks is. You don’t have to have been physically abused – domestic violence can include any bullying or restricting behaviour, put-downs and insults, any way in which you feel you are being controlled by your partner instead of being treated like an equal and with respect.

Who will answer?
Our telephone Helpline is staffed by trained women who will listen to you without judging you or telling you what to do.

What can I talk about?
Anything. You may want specific information and support; you may just want to talk. Whatever the reason you ring, what will be discussed is what you want to talk about. And you can ring as many times as you feel you need to.

Do I have to give my name?
Not if you don’t want to. Your call can be anonymous and the details will be treated in the strictest confidence.

What sort of help can I expect?
Our Helpline staff can provide you with emotional support and practical information as well as referrals to emergency accommodation or to other support services. If you need calls to be made on your behalf, or arrangements to be made, there is help with this too.

Is it safe to call?
If you are concerned that your call will be itemised on your phone bill, you can ask to be called back – our number is ‘withheld’. We would also advise that you call another number after speaking to us, so we cannot be traced through ‘redial’.

When can I call?
The Helpline runs from 10.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday, call 0800 0732 606 or 0121 685 8519 for women with hearing difficulties. You can also call and leave a message on the answering machine at any time, provided it’s safe to call you back (this is not possible if your phone does not accept witheld numbers).

Staffing the Helpline is one of our volunteering opportunities. If you would like more information about volunteering as a Helpline worker, click here.