Aim

Paloma is the project name for our domestic abuse oureach services in Wiltshire and Swindon.
The services are aimed at victims of domestic abuse and involves one to one support, telephone support and group work.

Eligibility

These services are available to adults (over 16yo in Wiltshire and over 18yo in Swindon) who have experienced domestic abuse. There are no other eligibility criteria.

Referral

Referrals taken directly from individuals or indirectly from other agencies, but only with the consent of the individual.

Waiting List

We do not offer a crisis service and access is normally on a first come first served basis. However, in exceptional cases we may offer a priority service.

When demand is high we may operate a waiting list. We will continue to offer some telephone support to you while you are waiting for a worker.

Funding

Funding for these services comes from Swindon Borough Council, Wiltshire Council, Wiltshire Police, Wiltshire PCT and various trusts.

Location

Wiltshire and Swindon.

What is Domestic Abuse/Violence

The government defines domestic violence as: 'any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional) between adults who are or have been intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality.'

Domestic abuse can include:

• making you feel scared and intimidated,
• physical abuse such as hitting or kicking,
• emotional abuse such as shouting, name calling and threats, and
• sexual assault including having sex with you when you don't want to have sex.

Criminal offences include:

• assault,
• threat to kill,
• wounding,
• attempting to choke,
• harassment,
• putting you in fear of violence, and
• rape and sexual assault.

Even if the domestic abuse you have experienced is not illegal, you can still get help and support. In many cases things get worse over a period of time, so trust your instincts and get help before you (and your children) are put in danger.

Warning signs of possible domestic abuse from someone you know could include:

• controlling behaviour,
• a history of domestic violence,
• putting you down and criticising you,
• harassing you and checking up on you, including going through your phone or following you,
• using a weapon such as a knife to frighten or intimidate,
• breaking, smashing or punching things,
• threatening to harm themselves or commit suicide, and
• threatening to take the children away.