Guidance

Armed forces domestic abuse: a handbook for civilian support services

Updated 5 October 2022

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1. Introduction

1.1 Foreword

This Handbook is designed to help and inform UK based civilian support services who are working with armed forces families affected by domestic abuse. The information within this Handbook is armed forces specific but it is essential that practitioners consider both military and civilian support options in order to ensure that families are able to access the most appropriate support for their individual needs. This Handbook should be read in conjunction with generic domestic abuse information. It is recognised that the majority of practitioners who use this Handbook will be experienced in supporting those affected by domestic abuse, although to ensure it has utility across all support services, generic working practices within the field of domestic abuse are referred to.

1.2 Background

The UK Armed Forces community is a reflection of a wider society within which domestic abuse is not uncommon. It is inevitable that domestic abuse occurs within the armed forces, and it is therefore important to understand the dynamics within this community that can add to the vulnerability of victims. Some unique factors that often affect families within the Armed Forces community are outlined below. These factors can place additional pressures on families and may contribute to an individual’s concerns when they are in, or seeking to leave, an abusive relationship and include:

  • economic dependence on the serving person is increased due to good job security and military benefits such as Service Family Accommodation (SFA). These benefits are linked to the serving person and are very valuable to young families
  • regular postings can make it difficult for a spouse to maintain a career which can diminish their own employability and financial independence. As a result, it is not uncommon for couples to rely on a single income and experience financial hardship
  • military commitments can lead to long and frequent periods of separation with the partner who is left at home taking on additional roles. This can necessitate significant readjustment by the whole family when the absent partner returns. Long periods of separation can foster distrust, and children born during separation can also place additional strain on families and relationships
  • regular assignments to new locations can isolate victims from wider family support as well as local civilian support services.

Within the armed forces community there is little to separate professional and personal lives. For example, individuals who work together will often also be neighbours. Unmarried personnel often live in single living accommodation (SLA), and may be living in the same accommodation block as an abusive partner for example. Military personnel may also fulfil the role of medical staff and welfare support workers. With such close links within the Armed Forces community the worry of unwanted repercussions is often a significant concern to victims. Of even greater concern is the threat that the perpetrator may lose their job if the victim reports the abuse, with a family potentially facing significant loss of earnings as well as military benefits such as housing.

1.3 Multi-Agency Working

Due to the unique lifestyle and employment of armed forces personnel, they and their families have access to specialist military welfare support services, as well as civilian support services. There is a need to ensure that civilian support services and the Armed Forces welfare support network work closely together to ensure the needs of those affected by domestic abuse are fully met. Both military and civilian services must recognise the importance of meeting these needs following a number of case reviews and recent government initiatives.

Some of the reasons for improved multi-agency working between civilian and military services include:

  • awareness of domestic abuse within armed forces families is improving as a result of the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to support the cross-government Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) agenda. This has included the development of Joint Service Publication (JSP) 913, Whole Service policy on Domestic abuse, updated Sept 2022. Within this policy it clearly states that domestic abuse within the armed forces will not be tolerated, alongside a commitment to increase awareness of this issue.

  • there are an increasing number of armed forces families living in their own homes, rather than in service family accommodation. There are also an increased number of reservists. These two factors make it more likely that civilian-based services will be considered and accessed

  • domestic Violence Homicide Reviews are now compulsory which has led to an increased awareness of the need to share information and work together in order to protect victims. For more information go to Domestic Homicide Reviews Common themes identified as Lessons to be Learned..

1.4 Building Relationships with the UK Armed Forces Community

This Handbook provides a general overview of the British Armed Forces. The size and role of military units, as well as the scope of the armed forces welfare support network will vary nationally; it is suggested that civilian practitioners engage with local units in order to actively build relationships with military welfare providers (see list below). The importance of understanding local working practices whilst also building strong relationships between agencies is well recognised. Civilian agencies and safeguarding meetings should ensure that the armed forces welfare providers are included in order to ensure anyone affected by domestic abuse is appropriately supported.

The following list suggests ways of building a strong working relationship with the local armed forces community:

  • visit your local armed forces welfare providers and understand their role. In particular, make contact with your local single-Service specialist welfare provider who has a more specialised role within the military welfare system (see paragraph 3.2).
  • understand the wider military support network
  • meet with the local chain of command (chain of command is broadly defined by rank, and is the structure through which authority and direction flows). The Armed Forces rank structure is explained by the BBC
  • there will be commanders who are responsible for the local infrastructure and support services within a military base. Within that base there will also be Commanding Officers who have responsibility for the units and the people within them
  • review local military websites
  • actively work to establish a multi-agency support network for the armed forces community comprising both military and civilian support services
  • include the military community in local domestic abuse forums and groups. Also possibly consider establishing a local military domestic abuse group in order to help local agencies work together and share key information. An action plan for establishing a military group is included in Appendix 1
  • in some areas it may be possible to secure an initial invitation to a military based welfare meeting. It may also be possible to link into local armed forces Covenant initiatives or meetings.

Anyone working with civilian support services recognises the importance of understanding local working practices whilst also building strong relationships with other agencies; this requirement is no different when interfacing with the armed forces community.

2. Background Information: The armed forces

2.1 The British Armed Forces

The British Armed Forces consist of the Royal Navy, Army and the Royal Air Force. More information on each of these military services can be found at the links detailed below:

Although there are similarities between the three Services, there are also differences in terms of service. For example, the length of time UK Armed Forces families may be stationed in one area, whether families are more likely to be living in SFA and the way in which welfare support is provided. It must also be understood that within each of the Services there are further differences depending on factors such as unit size and role. It is helpful for civilian practitioners to have an understanding of the specifics relevant to the armed forces branch within their local area (see para 3.1 and 3.2).

2.2 Benefits of Interfacing with the UK Armed Forces

Civilian practitioners who establish a mutually supportive working relationship with military units in their area ensure families will be able to benefit from both civilian and armed forces welfare provision; this will help all services meet the specific needs of the individual. It is essential to understand who the local armed forces welfare providers are, as well as the wider armed forces support network so that safeguarding options can be considered and put in place. It is also important to understand the local chain of command and their potential role in supporting families.

2.3 Risk Factors for Domestic Abuse

There is no evidence to suggest that domestic abuse is any more prevalent within the UK Armed Forces, however the following points could place additional pressure on families:

  • research has indicated that people between the ages of 20 and 40 are at highest risk of experiencing domestic abuse – this age range is strongly represented in the armed forces
  • regular assignments and geographic separation can isolate victims by cutting them off from their family and support systems
  • regular assignments can make it difficult for a spouse to maintain a career, resulting in them being more economically dependent on the serving partner
  • regular deployments and reunions create unique stresses on armed forces families.

2.4 Institutional Challenges

People affected by domestic abuse, including victims, perpetrators and children within the household, will often try to hide the abuse they are experiencing. For those from the Armed Forces community there will be additional concerns and barriers to be overcome in order to help them access support and report the abuse.

Some common concerns that have been highlighted through research include:

  • fear of career consequence, either for them if they are serving, or their serving partner
  • the potential impact on housing, economic security and pensions
  • a perceived stigma attached to male victims.

A strong relationship between civilian support services and armed forces welfare providers will help victims seek the support they need.

2.5 Tri-Service Policy

Domestic abuse is not tolerated within the armed forces. The main policy document for the armed forces is Joint Service Publication (JSP) 913, Whole Service policy on Domestic abuse, updated Sept 2022. JSP 913 details the responsibilities of the chain of command and the procedures for military welfare provision. Each of the three Services has additional policies that are Royal Navy, Army or Royal Air Force specific. The key policy documents for the Army are: Army General Administrative Instruction (AGAI) 81 and Army Briefing Note (ABN) 103/14. The key policy documents for the RAF are: Air Publication (AP) 3392 Volume 2 Leaflet 2414 (Domestic Abuse Practice Policy); AP 1722 Part 3 Leaflet 3528 (RAF Police Procedures for Domestic Abuse, Sexual Violence and Child Protection; RAF Internal Briefing Note (IBN) 49/14 (Dealing with Domestic Abuse in the RAF).

A number of additional tri-service policies that may be relevant to cases of domestic abuse are outlined below:

  • JSP 770 – Tri-Service Operational and Non-Operational Welfare Policy. This policy also refers to domestic abuse
  • JSP 763 – MOD Bullying and Harassment Complaints Procedure. This policy gives direction on the “separation of parties” which could be used in cases of domestic abuse between serving personnel; particularly those living in Single Living Accommodation
  • 2014DIN01-209 – Guidance to Commanding Officers and Victims when dealing with Allegations of Serious Criminal Offences including Sexual Offences. Within this DIN the Commanding Officer has the option of managing working patterns, moving the victim or offender and offering a career change or compassionate discharge where appropriate and/or required.

3. Welfare Support within the UK Armed Forces Community

All military units have an established welfare support structure to call upon. It is important to understand that different organisations work to different confidentiality codes; civilian practitioners must understand these specifics when interfacing with armed forces welfare providers. The UK Armed Forces community can access an extensive support network which is outlined below.

3.1 Unit Based Welfare Support

Local support is carried out by The Royal Naval Divisional System in the Naval Service, by Unit Welfare Officers in the Army and by RAF Personnel Staffs in the RAF. These services are part of the Chain of Command and work to the MOD code of confidentiality. Although these organisations are Service-specific, when serving in joint units, serving personnel and their families can access whichever welfare organisation is best suited to meet their needs.

3.2 Service Specialist Welfare Organisations

In addition to Unit based welfare support (known as first level), the armed forces also have single-Service specialist welfare providers (sometimes referred to as second line) who deal with the most complex cases and are independent of the chain of command. Staffs providing welfare support at the Unit level are mandated to refer situations involving Child Protection and domestic abuse to the Service specialist welfare providers, which are detailed below:

The Naval Service Family and People Support (NS FPS)

The Naval Service Family and People Support (NS FPS) offer confidential advice and welfare support for all Royal Naval and Royal Marine personnel and their families. They work to a single point of contact which allows easy access to all welfare services for families, service personnel and unit staff. More information on the service provided by NS FPS can be found at on the Royal Navy website.

Army Welfare Service (AWS)

The Army Welfare Service (AWS) provides professional, confidential welfare support to Army personnel and their families. AWS works in support of the Chain of Command but remains independent from it. AWS is currently in transition and is moving towards a single point of access via an AWS Intake and Assessment team. This team will be fully operational by December 2015. In the interim, AWS can be contacted on 01252 787586. More information on AWS can be found at the British Army website.

RAF – SSAFA Support

In addition to the wider support available through SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen Families Association), the RAF has commissioned a UK based confidential personal support and social work service. Support is controlled on a regional basis, with all large and medium sized stations having SSAFA fieldworkers. The personal support and social work service can be accessed by all RAF personnel, including Reserves, and their families. More information on this support service, as well as regional contact details, can be found at SSAFA website.

3.3 Forcesline

Forcesline is a free, confidential telephone helpline and e-mail service run by SSAFA. Experienced staff provide a supportive listening and signposting service for current and former members of the armed forces and their families. More information can be found at SSAFA website, Forces Line.

3.4 Chaplaincy Support

Chaplains work within each of the Armed Services and are located with units throughout the world. Chaplaincy support, which is confidential and outside of the Chain of Command, is available to all service personnel and their families. Chaplains provide spiritual leadership, moral guidance, and pastoral support, regardless of religion or belief; the Padre is around to talk to and help everyone. Chaplaincy support can be accessed locally, with further details available through the HIVE Information Centres (see sub-section below).

3.5 Families Federation

Each of the three Services has a Families Federation that is there to represent the needs of the service family; they are independent organisations that will offer confidential advice, signposting as well as a voice on any relevant issue. They can be contacted either by telephone or e-mail, with key information outlined on their websites which are detailed below:

3.6 HIVE Information Centres

The HIVE is an information network available to all members of the Service community. HIVE Information Centres provide up-to-date, relevant information and can be contacted in person or by either telephone or e-mail; for locations and contact details see the websites detailed below:

3.7 Joint Service Housing Advisory Office

The Joint Service Housing Advice Office (JSHAO) provides housing information and advice to Service personnel and their families to assist them in their transition to civilian life. Further information and contact details can be found at Joint Service Housing Advice Office on GOV.UK.

3.8 Charity Support

There are many charities that support the armed forces community. Links to two of the main organisations are detailed below:

The Royal British Legion (RBL) provides lifelong support for members of the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force, Reservists, veterans and their families all year round. It is a national organisation that works in local communities across the UK, delivering information, advice and support. The Legion’s support does not automatically end should you divorce or separate from your spouse or partner. Please follow this link to find out more on eligibility British Legion website or speak directly with Legion staff. Find out more by visiting the Legion online advice centre www.britishlegion.org.uk, or by calling 0808 802 8080 (8am to 8 pm, 7 days a week) or popping into one of the Legion information centres across the country. The phone line is free from UK landlines and main mobile networks.

3.9 Support for Reservists and Veterans

Reservists can access the welfare services that directly support serving personnel (see para 3.2) when their welfare concern has developed in the run up to, during or after reserve service, or if the welfare concern is as a result of undertaking such service. Additional information and support services available to veterans and their families, beyond standard civilian support services, are outlined at Chapter 5: Resources and Contact Information.

4. Tools and Supporting Information for Civilian Support Services

The following information provides civilian support services with the additional information and the understanding required to fully support a victim of domestic abuse from the UK Armed Forces community.

4.1 Useful Questions to Help Assess an Individual’s Specific Safety Planning Needs

The following questions will help formulate an individual safety plan and should be used in addition to generic safety planning considerations:

  • if the victim is serving what is their rank? If the perpetrator is serving what is their rank? Do they live in service family accommodation? How long have they been in the armed forces?
  • are there any upcoming deployments or returns from deployments? Is the victim concerned about the deployment or will this provide them with an opportunity to put plans in place if they wish to leave the relationship?
  • is the serving individual due to be assigned to another base (in the UK or abroad)? If so, does this present a problem in terms of ongoing support? It is important to ensure that agencies in the area the family may move to are aware of their domestic abuse background.
  • what does the victim want (if anything) in terms of military response?
  • has the victim reported the abuse to anyone within the armed forces? What exactly did he/she report? To whom? What happened?
  • does the victim wish to remain in the relationship or separate from their partner? If they wish to separate, additional factors such as accommodation, movement (either nationally or internationally) and transition into a civilian community may need to be managed. There may also be financial complications if the victim is financially dependent on the perpetrator. Non-British spouses of armed forces personnel may be dependent on their partner for their immigration status, which in turn can impact on their right to reside, work or claim recourse to public funds in the UK
  • does the victim consent to the sharing of information with armed forces welfare providers or the chain of command in order to help keep them safe? If so, which services are they happy for this information to be shared with and are there any limitations? Are there safeguarding concerns which necessitate the sharing of information without consent (including referral to the Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference and/or to Children’s/Adult’s Services)?

There are a number of options which are available to the chain of command and should be considered alongside civilian safeguarding options to help enhance and complement safety planning e.g. generate breathing space by moving a serving perpetrator into Single Living Accommodation (SLA) or possibly sending then away on a course.

4.2 Deciding how to Proceed Following a Disclosure of Domestic Abuse

As in all cases, the over-riding concern should be to ensure the immediate safety of the victim and any children. All practitioners, both civilian and military, will be expected to refer to their own agency protocols for domestic abuse. Consideration should also be given to emergency housing needs and the involvement of the Home Office Police Safeguarding Team and Children’s/Adult’s Services. Where safeguarding concerns exist the single-Service welfare providers should be engaged and invited to attend any child protection case conferences. Additionally, JSP 913 states that if there is any concern that a child, young person, or pregnant woman might be experiencing domestic abuse, professional advice should be sought from local authority children’s services. The single-Service specialist welfare providers are key agencies for civilian staff to engage with to ensure that the military and civilian provision is provided to those in need in an appropriate and timely fashion.

Some of the major concerns likely to be voiced by victims are detailed below. When considering these concerns it is important to keep the following points in mind:

Determining whether a victim’s fears are real or perceived will depend on a wide range of factors including; severity of abuse/violence, relationship with armed forces welfare personnel, rank and performance of serving individual (whether victim or perpetrator).

There are safety benefits as well as risks to reporting. The victim should be made aware of both in order to make an informed decision. The victim should also be made aware of the benefits of sharing information.

A good working relationship with those within the armed forces welfare support system will generate answers to a hypothetical situation; thereby informing the victim of how certain situations could play out.

Victims’ Concerns – Increased violence/retaliation by the perpetrator

All victims face increased risks when they take action to change their relationship with an abusive partner and end the violence and controlling behaviour they have been experiencing. These risks may be amplified in the military context because of the close link between professional and personal lives for serving personnel.

Additional points to consider:

  • assess risk level by using an approved risk assessment tool and explore any issues that may be military specific
  • consider the need to refer cases for a multi-agency response (MARAC)
  • talk about safety planning options that include both military options and civilian legal remedies
  • understand and explain accommodation options.

Victims’ Concerns – A serving perpetrator will face career consequences or discharge

This is often the primary concern which stops victims from seeking help and reporting cases of domestic abuse; this is more a perception than actual reality. Whilst the armed forces do not tolerate domestic abuse is any shape or form, there are a wide range of sanctions (subject to the seriousness of any offence), of which termination of service (discharge) is one possible option. Recent policy changes encourage attendance at behaviour change programmes where appropriate.

Additional points to consider:

  • explore the sources of the victim’s fears about their partner’s career. Perpetrators will often maximise this fear to threaten the victim and secure their silence
  • make sure you have some understanding of the disciplinary and administrative action that may be taken against a perpetrator; your local unit or military welfare provider will be able to advise you. Also understand how any measures are recorded
  • are there any career implications
  • when a couple separate the armed forces welfare services will be able to help families as they transition out of the armed forces community.

Victims’ Concerns – I will have to leave my house

Every effort is made by the Services to assist estranged families by providing sufficient time to reconcile. In consultation with the serving spouse, the Chain of Command and the inservice housing provider, there is the ability utilise a 93 days window prior to changing marital status, during which the serving spouse can occupy Single Living Accommodation (SLA) at no charge (less food). In the event that the couple decide not to reconcile and they formally separate, the serving spouse is required to change their marital status on JPA and must also notify the housing provider of the change in their marital circumstances.

The estranged family is then entitled to continued occupancy of the SFA for a further 93 days, and the housing provider issues a formal Notice to Vacate (NTV) the property to coincide with this timeframe. Following this 93 days there is no continued entitlement to SFA and the estranged family is expected to move out of the property, however, individual family circumstances such as medical treatment or children’s education will be taken into consideration in what is known as a Proportionality Exercise and the housing provider may agree to a different period in which the family is required to move out. It should be noted that:

  • the serving spouse remains responsible for the SFA charges during both the reconciliation and NTV periods. Payment of utilities would be down to agreement between the estranged couple
  • following the 93 day NTV period the estranged spouse will become responsible for all costs in connection with the SFA (unless the serving spouse volunteers to pay).The charges applied are no longer at entitled rates and are calculated by the Type of property occupied (number of bedrooms) X a ‘daily rate’. The serving spouse will then incur full SLA charges
  • the serving spouse is not allowed to reoccupy SFA (without the Commanding Officer’s permission) unless and until he/she resumes cohabitation with the spouse on a permanent domestic basis and any decree of divorce has been rescinded, or until they remarry, or until he/she has the recognised parental responsibility of any children of the family to satisfy entitlement to SFA. The estranged spouse is able to move private effects for the final move out of service provided accommodation in the UK into private accommodation at public expense, applied for by the service spouse. In cases where estrangement occurs overseas, the Commanding Officer should give the estranged spouse the opportunity to move back to the UK before the start of the 93 day Notice to Vacate period. This move is publically funded and the estranged spouse can elect to have the move made either to a surplus SFA, the Services Cotswold Centre, SSAFA Stepping Stones homes or private accommodation.

Additional information on these housing options is detailed below:

Victims’ Concerns – The perpetrator will not be held accountable

Commanding Officers have broad discretion in deciding what action, if any, will be taken against a perpetrator, provided a criminal offence has not occurred. If they are made aware they will also take into account the wider situation and wishes of the victim. It is possible that although the victim has spoken to the perpetrators superior, they may not have spoken to the Commanding Officer who is responsible for managing the situation, and will oversee issues such as discipline, accommodation options and possible release for a local perpetrator support programme. Victims should be encouraged to clearly identify specific acts of violence or abuse rather than referring to the general situation so that an evidence base can be established that will inform and influence how a Commanding Officer would manage a situation of domestic abuse.

Additional points to consider:

  • who, if anyone, has the victim talked to about the issue? What was the response? Is the perpetrator a friend of the person they reported their concerns to?
  • explore what the victim knows about the perpetrators overall level of support from their direct supervisor and/or commander
  • try and establish if the victim has spoken to any senior personnel at the unit. It is important to approach the right person in the Chain of Command; action will be taken and the victim will not be ignored
  • discuss hypothetical scenarios with military welfare providers who can provide valuable insight into the likely response from the military commander.

Victims’ Concerns – A serving victim will face career consequences

Victims who are serving within the armed forces may have concerns regarding the impact on their military career were they to seek help and support. Shame and fear of exposure is a common barrier that stops victims of domestic abuse coming forward; this concern can be even more significant for serving victims. Another concern to victims who serve within the armed forces is the fear that everyone in their unit will know what is happening to them; they are working in an environment where they are expected to be robust and not a ‘victim’. Male victims who are serving in the armed forces are also often concerned if they have children. They do not want to leave the abusive relationship because they are reluctant to leave their children in the care of a perpetrator, and they may also worry that they would struggle to get custody of their children due to the nature of their employment.

Additional points to consider:

  • explore the relationship between the victim and their Commanding Officer
  • explore the circumstances of the perpetrator. Are they civilian or military? If they are also serving are they senior or junior to the victim?
  • ensure the victim understands that the armed forces do not tolerate domestic abuse and they will be supportive of the victim.

Additional Options and Tools

The tools and options available to the civilian support services can always be applied to a domestic abuse situation within the UK Armed Forces community. Safety planning has already been covered at section 4.2.

A number of other options are detailed below:

Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme / Clare’s Law

The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme, also known as Clare’s Law gives the public a formal way of requesting information about a partners past. Anyone with a specific concern can request information, including potential victims as well as a friend, relative, loved-one, carer or neighbour. If a person has a history of violence the Home Office Police can disclose information in order to protect people at risk of harm.

Domestic Violence Protection Notices and Orders

The police can apply for Domestic Violence Protection Notices and Orders to prevent further violence between partners. They can be used in the aftermath of certain domestic violence incidents, and can prevent someone contacting their partner for 48 hours. The police can then apply for an order from a Magistrates court which can extend the same protection for between 14 and 28 days. They are used to create breathing space for victims, and when it is thought appropriate can be applied without the victim’s consent.

Local solicitors can provide legal advice to address immediate and long term needs for example nonmolestation orders, occupation orders, issues around child contact. In some cases Legal Aid may be available; eligibility can be confirmed by a legal aid family solicitor or through the Civil Legal Aid calculator. Some solicitors are able to provide a free initial assessment or fixed fee options. To find a local solicitor visit the Find legal Advice website or the Law Society website. The National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV) is able to assist in obtaining emergency injunctions where there has been a recent physical assault or threat. Their support is short term and more specific; for additional information visit their website. Citizens Advice Bureau can provide advice on legal options as well as benefit entitlement. It is possible to arrange an appointment with an advisor through their website, which also details factsheets and contact details; see Rights of Women works to achieve justice and equality by informing, educating and empowering women on their legal rights.

Divorce and Child Residency Arrangements

Information regarding the care of children when a couple divorce or separate can be found at Looking after Children guidance on gov.uk.

Community Based Perpetrator Support

Perpetrators who are worried about their behaviour can voluntarily access civilian-based support, for example, telephone help lines or community-based perpetrator support programmes. Arrangements to attend the longer term programmes may require Chain of Command support if there may be an impact on military commitments. Although the armed forces are broadly supportive of these programmes, they may not actively refer.

Relocation and Transitional Support

When a couple separate and their marital status is changed they will both still be entitled to support from military welfare providers, and where necessary they will be actively supported as they transition out of the military community. It should be recognised that entitlements to a number of allowances and benefits will change, and will be driven by who has primary care for any children in the family. AGAI 83 outlines Army policy that details the support available to a family as it transitions out of the armed forces community; this includes the coordination of links between military welfare providers and the aftercare community. Similar policy for the RAF can be found in AP 3392 Volume 2.

5.1 Special Circumstances

Immigration Issues

Non-British spouses of armed forces personnel may be dependent on their partner for their immigration status. In abusive relationships this reliance can be used as a threat to silence the victim. In cases of domestic abuse where either one or both partners are Non-British nationals their immigration status can impact on their right to reside, work or claim recourse to public funds in the UK; this is a very complicated issue. When a victim of domestic abuse is not a British citizen or European Economic Area (EEA) national it is important to seek qualified immigration advice as soon as possible after a relationship has broken down rather than wait until their current visa has expired. When the perpetrator is residing in the UK on a dependant’s visa, a breakdown in the relationship may mean their visa is no longer valid and they will have to return to their country of origin.

Domestic abuse victims (and their children) who are subject to UK immigration controls, may be eligible for settlement or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if they have experienced domestic abuse as the partner of a British citizen, a person settled in the UK, or a Foreign or Commonwealth member of the armed forces who has served for at least 4 years. The Domestic Violence Concession allows domestic abuse victims to apply for settlement (ILR) in their own right, enabling access to UK state support. Spouses or partners of service personnel who are not British citizens or have not settled in the UK and who have not yet served for four years are not eligible for leave to remain under the domestic violence provisions. They would need to take Office of the Immigration Service Commissioner (OISC) accredited advice on whether they were eligible to remain for other reasons. Any victim of domestic abuse who intends to apply for ILR should seek qualified immigration advice before submitting an application. Please see guidance to help you find a local registered immigration advisor which includes links to The Office of the Immigration Service Commissioner (OISC) who have a register of regulated immigration advisers, including those who do not charge clients for advice or services; please visit the register for further details. More information on this process, including the eligibility of children, can be found on the Find out if you can apply to settle in the UK guidance.

Victims Stationed Overseas

Domestic abuse victims may become more vulnerable if the family moves overseas. Isolation can become an issue and there are likely to be fewer support services available. The family may live either on or off a military base and the victim may not always be protected by the laws of the host country; specific advice should be sought from local military welfare providers regarding this issue. Families with a history of domestic abuse are less likely to be posted overseas due to increased vulnerability and a reduced access to support services.

Additional points to consider:

  • if a victim may be posted overseas discuss the options for remaining in the UK
  • if the victim is going to be posted overseas investigate the availability of civilian support services and shelter options
  • understand and explain the options for an early posting back to the UK if this becomes necessary.
  • if the victim is non-British and assigned overseas they will need to maintain a valid entry visa for access into the UK if required at short notice.

6. Resources and Contact Information

The following information may be of help to civilian practitioners working with families within the armed forces community who are affected by domestic abuse. The information varies, with some being generic and the remainder specific to the armed forces.

6.1 Female Victims

There are a number of national organisations that support female victims. Women’s Aid is one of the main ones, with their website containing a lot of very useful information, including the Survivor’s Handbook which addresses many of the issues faced by victims of domestic abuse.

A national domestic abuse 24/7 national helpline is operated by Refuge, 0808 2000 247. The helpline provides information, support and a listening ear, and can signpost to emergency refuge accommodation when appropriate.

6.2 Male Victims

The Men’s Advice Line provides support and information for male victims of domestic abuse. They offer a freephone helpline, 0808 801 0327, which is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm and until 8pm on Monday and Wednesdays. They can also be contacted by e-mail at info@mensadviceline.org.uk. They aim to return all calls and reply to e-mails within two working days. The ManKind Initiative (often referred to as ManKind) is a national charity that provides help and support to male victims; more information can be found on their website. Mankind offers a confidential helpline 01823 334244. The helpline is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm. In addition, support is available through Abused Men in Scotland (AMIS) and Men’s Advisory Project Northern Ireland (MAP NI).

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Relationships

Galop provides a helpline service for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. The freephone helpline is 0800 999 5428, and is open Monday, Thursday and Friday 10am – 4pm and Wednesday and Thursday (10am to 8pm), They can also be contacted by e-mail at help@galop.org.uk.

Children and Young People

Children and young people will always be affected by domestic abuse to some extent and will often display signs of anxiety, anger or loss of self esteem as a result of the abuse they hear and witness. More information outlining help and advice for children, young people and concerned adults is detailed below, including information on educational support for Service children.

Help and Support for Children and Young People

There are a number of websites and help lines that support children and young people who are affected by domestic abuse. The main ones are outlined below:

  • The Hideout: The Hideout has sections for both children and young people, within which there is information on domestic abuse as well as advice on what to do. Helplines are detailed and there are a number of sections including Your Stories, Teenspeak, Virtual Refuge and Graffiti Wall.
  • Childline: Childline is a free and confidential helpline for children and young people who need to talk to someone. The helpline number is 0800 1111. Within the website there is also a section on domestic violence.

Help and Advice for Adults and Parents

Any incident of domestic abuse where a child is present, or where the woman is pregnant, should be reported immediately to the Local Authority Children’s Social Care Services at county level to ensure the children’s safety. Contracted support for children’s social care is in place at overseas bases.

If you are worried about a child or need advice you can also contact the NSPCC help line at any time, 0808 800 5000.

Educational Support for Service Children

For parents, support providers and schools who require additional information regarding educational support for Service children, the following organisations may be of help:

6.3 Perpetrator Support

The Respect Phoneline (often referred to as Respect) is a national telephone support line for male and female perpetrators, concerned family members and friends, victims and frontline workers. The helpline offers information and advice to help perpetrators of domestic violence change their abusive or controlling behaviour and can signpost to local long term support programmes. The Respect Phoneline is available on freephone 0808 802 4040, and is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. It is also possible to e-mail on info@respectphoneline.org.uk. A voicemail service is available, the aim being to return calls and reply to e-mails within two working days.

6.4 Rape

Advice on reporting a rape or sexual assault can be found on gov.uk and includes information for people who do not want to approach the police. In addition, Rape Crisis provides support and counselling to anyone over 16 who has suffered any sexual abuse or assault, however long ago. More information can be found on the following websites:

6.5 Stalking

The Suzy Lamplugh Trust have information and guidance on their website to help anyone who is, or has been, affected by stalking and harassment. It also raises awareness and provides information about stalking and harassment to professionals, relevant agencies and the public.

The National Stalking Helpline is 0808 802 0300 and is open 9.30am to 4pm weekdays (except Wednesdays 1pm to 4pm).

6.6 Digital / Cyber Safety

Technology can be used by abusers as a means of threatening and controlling victims of domestic abuse. More information can be found on their website and includes an online safety guide as well as information and guidance for victims, survivors, friends and family members.

6.7 Female Genital Mutilation

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is illegal in the UK. It is also illegal to take a British national or permanent resident abroad for FGM, or to help someone who is trying to do this. For more information go to their website, or the NSPCC links detailed below:

6.8 A Guide to Help Service Families During Relationship Breakdown

Information about relationship breakdown can be found on the relevant single service websites.

Additional information can be found at:

6.9 Foreign and Commonwealth - Southall Black Sisters

Southall Black Sisters was established to meet the needs of Black (Asian and AfricanCaribbean) women. Their aim is to highlight and challenge all forms of gender related violence against women, and also to empower them to gain more control over their lives.

They can offer specialist advice, information, casework, advocacy, counselling and self-help support services in several community languages, especially South Asian languages. Although their focus is on the needs of black and minority women, they will not turn any woman away who needs emergency help.

6.10 Foreign and Commonwealth – Shakti Women’s Aid

Shakti Women’s Aid is a Scottish charity that provides help for black minority ethnic (BME) women, children and young people who are experiencing, or who have experienced domestic abuse. For more information, including support in other languages go to their website.

6.11 Translated Documents

Some support websites will have a translation facility; a couple of useful examples are detailed below. These documents are key to Foreign and Commonwealth victims who do not have English as a first language. The main charities will also have access to interpreters.

Women’s Aid - Survivors Handbook: the Survivors Handbook has been abbreviated and translated into a number of languages, detailed at The Survivors Handbook.

Three Steps to Escaping Domestic Violence: The government leaflet ‘Three Steps to Escaping Domestic Violence’ has been translated into a number of languages which are detailed on gov.uk Three steps to escaping domestic violence.

6.12 Information for Veterans

Veterans are part of the civilian community and can always access civilian support services. Information on these services, both for victims and perpetrators, are detailed in the relevant sections above. Additional information and support services available to veterans and their families are outlined below.

Civilian Support Services

The NHS provides a number of specialist services that may be of use to veterans:

Charity Support

There are many charities that actively support veterans and their families. Although not all can be detailed, the main ones are outlined below:

Royal British Legion:

The Royal British Legion (RBL) operate within the community and actively support veterans and their families. They also provide a helpline service - 0808 802 8080 (8am to 8 pm, 7 days a week) which is free from UK landlines and main mobile networks. Alternatively visit one of the Legion information centres which are located throughout the country. More information can be found in the Information for Victims section detailed above or on their website.

SSAFA

SSAFA provide practical, emotional and financial support to serving personnel as well as veterans and their families. Forcesline is a free, confidential telephone helpline and e-mail service run by SSAFA. Experienced staff provide a supportive listening and signposting service for current and former members of the armed forces and their families.

The relevant telephone numbers are:

  • UK: 0800 731 4880
  • Germany: 0800 1827 395
  • Cyprus 800 91065
  • Falkland Islands # 6111
  • the rest of the world +44(0)1980 630854

Royal Marine Association

The Royal Marine Association (RMA) is there to support all Royal Marines and their families, including veterans. They also run TRiM for Veterans (T4V) which supports all Royal Marine Veterans or those who have served with 3 Commando Brigade.

Veterans Aid

Veterans Aid is a charity that supports veterans who are in crisis; they operate by addressing an individual’s most immediate needs as rapidly as possible. They can be contacted on Freephone 0800 012 68 67or by landline 020 7828 2468. Alternatively contact them by e-mail on info@veterans-aid.net.

Combat Stress

Combat Stress is a mental health charity for Veterans. It runs a 24 hour helpline - 0800 138 161 - for the military community and their families. Alternatively they can be contacted by text on 404 719 (standard charges apply for texts) or by e-mail at combat.stress@rethink.org. They are there to offer advice on various issues from mental health to practical support.

SPACES

SPACES or the Single Persons Accommodation Centre for the Ex Services is designed to help single-Service Leavers find appropriate accommodation. It is based within The Beacon at Catterick, North Yorkshire and provides an accommodation placement service for single personnel being discharged from all three services. Although not directly involved with the issue of domestic abuse, they are experienced in supporting veterans and are an effective signposting service. For more information go to their website. They can also be contacted by telephone on 01748 833797, 01748 872940 or 01748 830191. Their e-mail address is spaces@riverside.org.uk.

Additional Information and Resources

The following information may also be of interest to the veteran community:

Veterans UK

Veterans UK is overseen by the Ministry of Defence and is there to help ex-service personnel and their families decide which support services to access. The Veterans UK Helpline – 0808 1914 218 – is free to all veterans and their families and provides advice on many topics. Veterans UK also administers the Armed Forces Pension Scheme and as well as payments for those injured or bereaved through service.

Veterans Gateway

The Veterans Gateway puts veterans and their families in touch with organisations best placed to help with the information, advice and support they need. Freephone contact number 0808 802 1212 available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

6.13 Summary

Practitioners working in support services or local communities recognise the need to understand the working practices of other agencies as well as the importance of building strong and enduring relationships with other support providers and community groups. It is hoped that this Handbook helps civilian practitioners support victims, perpetrators and families from the armed forces community who are affected by domestic abuse. This could be for a specific case, or for ongoing commitments within an area where the armed forces are strongly represented. The UK Armed Forces community is a reflection of wider society, and it is important to ensure that although the dynamics they manage may be quite unique, the support they receive is as effective as their civilian counterparts.

Every effort has been made to ensure the information contained in this Handbook is accurate and current at the time of publication.

7. Appendix 1: Establishing a Local Domestic Abuse Military SubGroup

7.1 Considerations for Establishing a Local Domestic Abuse Military Sub-Group

The table below details the main point’s civilian practitioners may wish to consider when establishing a local domestic abuse military sub-group.

Ser Action Considerations
1 Identify need Are there military bases in the local area? Have any issues been identified which may have benefitted from a stronger multi-agency approach?
2 Identify key players Possibly people who have already highlighted the requirement for a Military Sub-Group.
3 Initial scoping meeting Identify and invite key players to an initial scoping meeting having publicised the agenda in advance.
4 Hold scoping meeting and start to build relationships Decide who will chair and take minutes for initial scoping meeting. Ensure everyone has the opportunity to contribute. Identify a list of other key players and establish who will contact them. Agree need and frequency of future meetings, confirm next meeting date. Agree who will chair and take minutes for the next meeting (possibly rotate position of chair).
5 Circulate minutes and date for next meeting Minutes should ideally detail role and remit of each agency to avoid covering this again at the next meeting. Distribute contact details.
6 Draft terms for discussion at the next meeting This will provide members with clear aims and objectives for the meetings, as well as establishing parameters. Consider whether the information shared at the meetings will be generic and focused on multi-agency working. If individual cases will be discussed an Information Sharing Agreement is required.

7.2 Suggested Terms of Reference for a Domestic Abuse Military Sub-Group

Ser Topic Suggested content
1 Introduction Shared definition of domestic abuse. Background information, for example statistics such as domestic abuse prevalence.
2 Aims and Objectives of group Could include items such as: to improve the process of tackling domestic abuse across the agencies involved, to increase knowledge, understanding and inter-agency working between group members, to collect and share information, data, current research, trends and best practice as a way of keeping group members fully informed regarding domestic abuse issues, to maximize available resources by utilising methods such as liaison, information exchange, data collection and networking, to encourage and develop preventative initiatives aimed at victims, perpetrators, children and young people, to identify gaps in service provision and recommend appropriate action, to organise, where appropriate, training for group members and other professionals, to acknowledge the important contribution that every member of the group makes whilst also encouraging the exchange of information between members to further the work of the group and benefit the wider community. If an Information Sharing Agreement is required, ensure it is captured within the objectives.
3 Membership Agree who can be a member. Confirm any membership criteria. Will members have to commit to attending a certain number of meetings? Any sanctions for non-attendance? Role of group members could include; acting as a bridge between their agency and the group, actively participating in the work of the group, represent the views and interests of their agency at group meeting, act as a bridge between the group and other relevant meetings, keep their agency informed and up to date with the work of the group, share information, research and good practice, be willing to work collaboratively with other group members and organisations in working towards reducing and/or eliminating domestic abuse.
4 Equality and Diversity Consider whether to include a statement such as; the members of the group will ensure that no person is discriminated against on the grounds of colour, race, ethnic origin, nationality, religious belief, gender, sexual orientation or marital status. All individuals and agencies represented on the group accept that domestic violence and abuse can affect men, women and those in same sex relationships. The group aims to assist and support all members of society who have been victims of domestic abuse including survivors. Group members must recognise that the needs of the children are paramount and any child protection issues need to be considered as an overriding factor.
5 Meetings Who is going to chair meetings? Frequency of meetings? (good practice would suggest quarterly) Who will take the minutes of meeting? Who are the minutes circulated to? Agenda items, process for placing items on the agenda.
6 Reporting Will this group report to any other overseeing group: Community Safety Partnership; Military based welfare meeting?
7 Review When will this document be reviewed
8 Appendix Membership list

7.3 Suggested Membership for a Domestic Abuse Military Sub-Group

Membership is clearly dependent on local representation by these support providers, which will vary nationally.

Ser Support providers Membership
1 Armed Forces welfare providers Royal Navy Royal Marines (RN RM) Welfare, Army Welfare Service (AWS), SSAFA PS and SWS (RAF)
2 Police agencies Home Office Police, MOD Police (MDP), Royal Navy Police (RNP), Royal Military Police (RMP), RAF Police (RAFP)
3 Military Families Federation Navy Families Federation, Army Families Federation, RAF Families Federations
4 Links with local military bases Possibly a domestic abuse lead, if not, a welfare lead for the local military base. Approaching local military welfare providers or linking into the Headquarters element of the military base will help establish this link. It is possible that domestic abuse is already considered within another meeting agenda, and there may not be the need to establish a Domestic Abuse Military Sub-Group.
5 Civilian support services Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA), Outreach Support Service Victim Support Drug and Alcohol Services armed forces related projects (for example, housing providers, Combat Stress, services for veterans), local domestic abuse forum, local council (most will have details on their websites as to key contacts), Children’s Services and Adult Services Probation Council’s armed forces covenant link Health Local solicitors

8. Appendix 2: Useful Acronyms and Abbreviations

8.1 Civilian

Ser Acronym/Abbreviation Full text
1 ACPO Association of Chief Police Officers
2 ADAPT Community Based Perpetrator Programme (30 week, long term behavioural change programme
3 ASBO Anti-social Behavioural Order
4 BME Black and minority ethnic
5 CAFCASS Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service
6 CAIU Child Abuse Investigation Unit
7 CCG Clinical Commissioning Group
8 CDRP Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership
9 CSP Community Safety Partnership
10 CJS Criminal Justice System
11 CPS Crown Prosecution Service
12 CRU Central Referral Unit
13 CSU Community Safety Unit
14 DA Domestic Abuse
15 DAAT Drug and Alcohol Action Team
16 DV Domestic Violence (interchangeable with domestic abuse)
17 DVPN/DVPO Domestic Violence Protection Notice / Order
18 FGM Female Genital Mutilation
19 FRS Fire and Rescue Service
20 HBV ‘Honour’ Based Violence
21 IDAM Court ordered work individually or in groups for perpetrators of domestic abuse who aren’t suitable for the IDAP
22 IDAP Integrated Domestic Abuse Programme (for perpetrators of domestic abuse who are ordered by the court to attend a perpetrator programme
23 ISVA Independent Sexual Violence Advocate / Adviser
24 IDVA Independent Domestic Violence Advocate / Adviser
25 LAGLO Lesbian and Gay Liaison Officer
26 LCJB Local Criminal Justice Board
27 LGBT Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender
28 LSCB Local Safeguarding Children Board
29 LSP Local Strategic Partnership
30 MARAC Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference
31 MAPPA Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements
32 MASH Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub
33 NOMS National Offender Management Service
34 OIC Officer in Charge of the case
35 PCC Police and Crime Commissioner
36 PHSE Personal, Health and Social Education
37 PNC Police National Computer
38 PND Police National Database
39 PSR Pre-Sentence Report
40 PPO Prolific and Priority Offender Scheme
41 PPU Public Protection Unit
42 SARA Spousal Assault Risk Assessment
43 SARC Sexual Assault Referral Centre
44 SDAC/SDVC Specialist Domestic Abuse / Violence Court
45 SLA Service Level Agreement
46 VAWG Violence Against Women and Girls

8.2 Military

Ser Acronym/Abbreviation Full text
1 ABN Army Briefing Note
2 AFF Army Families Federation
3 AGAI Army General Administrative Instruction
4 AP Air Publication
5 AWS Army Welfare Service
6 BFSWS British Forces Social Work Service
7 CEAS Children’s Education Advisory Service
8 CO Commanding Officer
9 CoC Chain of Command
10 DIN Defence Instructions and Notices
11 F & C Foreign and Commonwealth
12 IBN Internal Briefing Note
13 JSHAO Joint Service Housing Administration Office
14 JSP Joint Service Publication
15 MDP Ministry of Defence Police
16 MOD Ministry of Defence
17 NFF Navy Families Federation
18 PS and SWS Personal Support & Social Work Service (RAF)
19 RAF Royal Air Force
20 RAF-FF Royal Air Force Families Federation
21 RAFP Royal Air Force Police
22 RBL Royal British Legion
23 RM Royal Marines
24 RMP Royal Military Police (Army)
25 RN Royal Navy
26 RNP Royal Navy Police
27 RNRMW Royal Navy Royal Marines Welfare
28 SCE Service Children’s Education
29 SCISS Service Children in State Schools
30 SSAFA Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen Families Associatio
31 SFA Service Family Accommodation
32 SLA Single Living Accommodation
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