Carmarthenshire has a Domestic Abuse Forum, which is a mixture of local agencies which have different services available.

Carmarthenshire Domestic Abuse Forum

We have different types of safety equipment; mobile phones and alarms that can be installed into your home to help you feel safe.
We can provide confidence building workshops for women who have suffered abuse.
From December 2004, a School Programme called ‘Safer Relationships’ will be delivered in all Carmarthenshire Schools for the 14- 17 year old age group.

We have also launched a DVD called ‘A Love Story?’ based on two young people in an abusive relationship, this is to help understand that relationships should be honest, equal and non violent.

We are running a campaign across Carmarthenshire over Christmas called ‘Poster and Coaster’

We have leaflets with information and help lines for male and female victims.
Tel:01269 598120

Women’s Aid.

There are three refuges across Carmarthenshire, the refuges are safe, warm and inviting and have child workers who offer support to young people.
Other services which are available - resettlement and aftercare such as; Counselling, Outreach Work and Floating Support.
They each have a Community Information Centre in Llanelli, Carmarthen and Ammanford.
www.womensaid.co.uk

Tel: 01554 741212, 01267 234725, 01269 597474

Police.

Are committed to providing a caring and professional service to the victims of domestic abuse. The police have a positive arrest policy to keep victims safe.
Each area now has officers who only deal with domestic abuse incidents, they are understanding, fair and helpful.
There are also School Liaison Officers who will regularly visit and work with Schools.

www.dyfed.powys.police.co.uk

Tel: 01267 232000, 01554 772222, 01269 592222

 Victim Support and Witness Support.

Uses trained volunteers to offer practical help and emotional support. Help is also available to attend Court hearings.
The 24 hour service is confidential and free.

Tel: 01267 220230, 01437 563337, 0845 3030900

Social Services.

Have trained people to work with families and young people on different types of issues and problems.
If you are at risk, contact the Duty Social Worker in the Assessment Team.
Tel: 01267 222288,

Health Service. NHS Trusts.

Both Prince Phillip Hospital in Llanelli and West Wales General Hospital in Carmarthen have Special Nurses in A & E that can help with domestic abuse problems or can refer you to someone who can help. They also have digital cameras available to photograph injuries.

Midwifes, Health Visitors and Youth Nurses also have trained people to deal with Domestic Abuse and will respect your privacy and protect your safety.

Tel: 01554 783237, 01267 227006

Tai- Hafan.

Is a housing association that provides housing and support for vulnerable women and children, including those who have suffered abuse. They also have a project for young women aged between 16 – 21 years.

www.tai-hafan.co.uk

Tel: 01267 225533

Prism.

Can offer counselling services plus information on drug and alcohol problems.

Tel: 01267 231634, 01554 741636

Crown Prosecution Service.

Has a trained solicitor who is also the Domestic Violence Coordinator for this agency. They strongly believe in effective prosecuting for victims of Domestic Abuse.

Tel: 01267 242100

Criminal Justice Board.

In February 2005 a national scheme called No witness No Justice will be launched to improve services to victims and witnesses.

www.cjsonline.org/lcjb/dyfedpowys

Dyfed Powys Probation Service.

Has a local Victim Liaison Officer who can give you information on the sentencing and court process. They can give you information if an offender whom you helped convict is considered to be released.

The offender at present must have been sentenced to a minimum of 12 months imprisonment.

Tel: 01267 244619.

Family Mediation.

Provides a service for couples at any stage of separation, they can be seen together or individually. They can help with issues such as property and finances.

Tel: 01267 233123

 Carmarthenshire County Council.

Works closely with agencies and has services such as Housing and Community Safety.

www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk

Tel: 01267 234567

CAB

Free help, information and advice.

Tel: 01267 234488, 01269 590721, 01554 759621.