Domestic violence is any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (which can take a number of different forms including psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional) between adult partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality. According to Women’s Aid, one in four women will experience domestic abuse during their lives and sadly, an average of 2 women per week die due to domestic violence.

At Derby Women’s Centre, we are a leading provider of domestic violence support in the Derbyshire area. We offer support to women who have experienced any form of domestic violence. Our domestic violence services include the Freedom Programme ( a support group aimed at survivors of domestic abuse) and counselling support. Less obviously, our range of social and creative activities can help women who have experienced domestic abuse to rebuild confidence and self esteem, reduce isolation and make new friends in a relaxed and friendly setting. All of our services are confidential and non-judgemental.

What is the Freedom Programme?
The Freedom Programme is a domestic violence programme which was created by Pat Craven who holds the copyright (all rights reserved) and evolved from her work with perpetrators of domestic violence. We provide information, not therapy.

The Programme was primarily designed for women as victims of domestic violence, since research shows that in the vast majority of cases of serious abuse are male on female. However, the programme, when provided as an intensive two day course, is also suitable for men, whether abusive and wishing to change their attitudes and behaviour or whether victims of domestic abuse themselves.

The Freedom Programme examines the roles played by attitudes and beliefs on the actions of abusive men and the responses of victims and survivors. The aim is to help them to make sense of and understand what has happened to them, instead of the whole experience just feeling like a horrible mess. The Freedom Programme also describes in detail how children are affected by being exposed to this kind of abuse and very importantly how their lives are improved when the abuse is removed.
Click here to watch a sample session of the from the Audio Visual Version which is now for sale as a download.

24-hour National Domestic Violence Freephone Helpline 0808 2000 247
Freedom Programme Charitable Trust 01942 262 270

Legal Support -
We offer free family law advice in partnership with Nelsons solicitors. One of the solicitors specialises in supporting victims of domestic abuse. Please note that one of the solicitors is male so please let us know when booking an appointment if you would only like to see a female solicitor.

When? Wednesday lunchtimes, by appointment only. Please call us on 01332 341633 for availability and to book.

Financial Support and Advice -
Leaving an abusive relationship can often result in financial difficulties. We offer advice and support regarding debt issues and entitlement to benefits to help you to get back on track.
When?
Weekdays by appointment. Please call us on 01332 341633 to arrange an appointment with our support worker.

Our Social and Creative Activities -
While our social and creative activities don’t specifically address domestic violence, many service users who have been victims of domestic violence have found them useful for rebuilding their lives and improving their self-esteem. Take a look at the Social and Creative page for details of our current and upcoming activities.

Attendance By Professional Referral
Drop-In
Self Referral