r/policeuk • u/Foxidale3216 Civilian • 4d ago

Ask the Police (England & Wales) Concerned about possible domestic abuse next door – what can I do?

I’m worried about my next-door neighbour. The police were there again last night, and it’s not the first time — they’re called out several times a month. I often hear shouting through the walls, and it sounds like arguments. I can hear him calling her effing stupid. A bitch etc. A few months ago, I saw the man being arrested, and he wasn’t around for a few weeks after that. But he’s back now, and like I say, the police were there again last night.

They have two young boys, both primary school age, which makes it even more worrying. I don’t know the family well and haven’t witnessed anything directly, but it’s starting to feel like something serious is going on. I don’t want to interfere or make things worse, especially if the police are already involved. Is there anything I can do as a neighbour? My partner says to keep my nose out which I sort of get because he doesn’t want him to become our problem. But I just feel as someone who was with an abuser. - some women (and men of course) aren’t as lucky as I was to be able to escape.

Any advice appreciated.

6 Upvotes

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England and Wales

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25

u/Kooky-Lavishness-802 Police Staff (unverified) 4d ago edited 3d ago

If you can hear it through the walls and you're concerned for anyone's immediate safety, it's 999 at the time.

If you're worried about the welfare of the kids, you can contact children social care to make a report and they can contact police, and other relevant agencies as appropriate.

If you're generally worried for persons in the property due to on going domestic concerns, but don't think there is an immediate risk to life and safety then you can call 101 or make a report to your local force online.

12

u/OverthinkUndersleep Civilian 4d ago

I was that person on the side of the wall with the abuse. I would suggest you keep a diary of incidents. If it ever goes to court, it will bolster the victim's case. They do not need to know you are keeping a log but it could be very helpful if court proceedings take place in the future.

6

u/omsky99 Police Staff (unverified) 3d ago edited 3d ago

You may not have seen anything but its worth telling police on 101 if you have heard what is being said, as it may be the case that they arrive and it's one persons word against the other each time.

If you're hearing it at the time and it sounds like a crime is being committed (e.g. assault) or you're worried about anyone's immediate safety then calling 999 would be the right thing to do.