For women suffering from violence whether at home, in the office, on the street it is vitally important that they know the right people to contact. The first point of contact depending on the severity of the violence should either be the hospital or the police. It is extremely important that domestic violence is reported to the authorities who will be able to determine the correct course of action.

Even if it is a loved one who is causing the violence it is still better to inform the authorities as they will be able to provide counselling or advice and arrange for an action plan on how to prevent the violence in the future.

After contacting the authorities there are many charities and support groups who can help women after they have been subject to violence. Refuge provide homes for women who are afraid to return to their own home after domestic violence whilst there are support groups where women are able to discuss their feelings and how the incident has affected them.

It is extremely important to seek out professional help as in the short term things may appear to have improved but violence against women is very likely to leave a mental and emotional scar which will leave women leading a less than optimal life. Professional counsellors and advisors can help women understand the violence and rationalise that it was not their fault, which is often the most debilitating after-effect of the violent incident. For the three million women who experience violence every year in the UK places like Refuge and Women�s Aid provide a sanctuary and can help in the aftermath of an incident.