Challenging misconceptions
Domestic abuse still carries huge taboos that prevent people from speaking out. There are still many misconceptions around what actually classifies as domestic abuse.
Many people and organisations for example have yet to grasp the significance of ‘coercive control’ – legislation that covers not just physical abuse, but psychological and emotional treatment as well as coercive and controlling behaviour. Such as when abusers isolate their victim from their friends and relatives or control their finances.
Many tend to think only of physical violence towards women but thinking so narrowly means people miss important information. Men can be victims of domestic abuse too, and we need to be working towards deepening people’s understanding around this.
Furthermore, not all perpetrators are men and boys, and not all domestic abuse is between people in romantic relationships. We need to help men to break out of a culture where they think they have to be “strong”, “hard” or “manly”. These toxic preconceptions of masculinity make it almost impossible for a male victim to come forward. This is something that can be mercilessly exploited by an abuser.
We all have a responsibility to understand domestic abuse to the fullest extent, as the alternative means placing so many lives at risk.
The role of housing associations
Unfortunately, in my job I regularly see proof of the fact that domestic abuse victims can be of any age, any gender and of any relationship to the perpetrator.
But as much as working in housing might highlight some of the worst things that can happen to people in our society, it also shows how important our role as social landlords is.
The difference social landlords can make to a victim’s life is huge. Simple things like changing locks, or a phone call or conversation with another agency can literally save someone’s life.
But this isn’t all we can do.
Achieving together
Community Safety and Housing teams play a huge role in supporting victims through such a difficult time in their lives. We engage with known victims of domestic abuse to carry out risk assessments, increase security at the property and where required, help the victim move elsewhere.
Our colleagues in the Housing teams and across the business are also vital. It’s just as often their vigilance and understanding of their tenants that will identify who needs that support.
We have to know what help to offer and when. We provide help and advice with regard to housing, moving someone out of a dangerous situation or finding a way through complicated issues such as joint tenancies.
Society needs to have people that are willing to stand up for those who don’t have voices and protect them from those who thrive on their vulnerability. Community Safety work allows me and the team to give victims their voice. We hopefully remind them that there are people who care, who are willing to listen and ready to act.
Community Safety Officer