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
1st Floor
Lammermuir House
Owen Square
Livingston
EH54 6PW
Tel: 01506 773730
Text: 07818 421480
There is no charge to customers for this service.
Downloadable documents
West Lothian CHCP
Local social and health care information, including information on healthy eating and physical activity.
Children and young people
Services which offer support and advice to children, young people, their parents, carers and families are provided.
Throughcare & Aftercare
A social work service for young people who are looked after or supported under an Aftercare service
