Domestic Violence Program

The NDHS Domestic Violence program assists victims of domestic violence and their children. This program educates and assists citizens on how to get help if they find themselves in this difficult situation, including advocacy, shelter, safety planning, court accompaniment, and referrals to appropriate services.

What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic Violence is a pattern of abusive behaviors used by one individual, intended to exert power and control over another individual in the context of an intimate relationship. Abusive behaviors may be in the form of verbal threats, physical assaults, emotional abuse, and sexual assault.

Ask Yourself: Are you ever afraid of your partner? Has your partner ever threatened or tried to hurt you? Do you feel like you “walk on eggshells” around your partner? Are you ever concerned for the safety of your children? Does your partner call you bad names? Has your partner blamed you for his/her violent behavior? Has your partner ever physically assaulted you?

If you answered YES to any of these questions, you may want to seek additional information about the dynamics of domestic violence and how they may be impacting your relationship, yourself and your children.

If you are in imminent danger, call 911.  If you or someone you know is involved in a relationship where domestic violence is present, or if you have questions about domestic violence services in the community, contact the Norfolk Department of Human Services, Domestic Violence Program a 664-6022.

Remember you are not alone. Services are available to assist you and your children through the process of regaining your life and help you explore your options. No one deserves to be abused. There is hope and there is help.

Reach Out  Miniature brochures about domestic violence are available to the public and community groups upon request Email . They are small enough to slip discreetly into a shoe or a pocket and contains tips for creating a safety plan as well as important phone numbers. Please indicate the desired number of min-brochures and include you mailing address and phone number.