Domestic violence

West Lothian Council have developed a new team which focuses on women and children affected by domestic abuse.

About domestic abuse

Domestic abuse can happen to anyone. Domestic abuse has no boundaries. The women affected are of all ages and abilities, from all ethnic and social backgrounds, regardless of sexuality.
Domestic abuse is any incident or behaviour by your partner or ex-partner that makes you afraid. It may include violence or threats of violence. Domestic abuse includes emotional, psychological and financial abuse.
Domestic abuse is often kept secret because it takes place in private places like your home. Incidents often occur in your home but may happen at work or in public.

Does domestic abuse affect children?

In 90% of reported domestic abuse incidents, children are present or in the next room. Domestic abouse can impact on children's health and well-being. The effects can be wide ranging - children may experience physical symptoms such as bed wetting. They may have difficulties concentrating, affecting their performance at school. They may be 'jumpy' or exhibit behavioural difficulties.

We can offer children a variety of services

We can work with the children to develop a safety plan.

We provide a safe place for your children to share their feelings about the abuse - feelings they may try to protect from you.

We will reassure the children that the abuse is not their fault - or yours.

We will work with the children to build confidence and a sense of worth.

Our service standards:

• We will offer appointments at convenient times and places where possible
• We will respect confidentiality without compromising the welfare of children and young people
• We will allocate a named worker who will be the contact person within two days of a service becoming available
• We will consult with women and children on how to improve our service

How to contact us:

West Lothian Council
Domestic Abuse Service
207-209 West Main Street
Whitburn
EH47 0LP

Telephone: 01501 744920 or 745686
Text: 07818421480