Domestic Abuse Support Letter: Free Template and What to Include

If you need to supporting statement for a non-molestation or occupation order application, a written letter is the recommended first step — it creates a clear record and shows you're pursuing the matter formally. Below is what a strong domestic abuse support letter should include.

What this letter needs to cover

• Describe the abusive behaviour with dates and incidents where possible (avoiding contact details that could compromise safety)
• Reference the Family Law Act 1996 Part IV (non-molestation and occupation orders) and the Domestic Abuse Act 2021
• Request urgent protection
• Recommend contacting specialist support such as the National Domestic Abuse Helpline

Why a supporting statement can strengthen a protection order application

Non-molestation and occupation orders are civil protective measures under the Family Law Act 1996, and courts rely heavily on clear, specific evidence when deciding whether to grant them. A supporting statement from someone who has witnessed the abuse or its impact can provide exactly the kind of independent, corroborating evidence a court finds persuasive.

What to include before you send it

• Your relationship to the person seeking protection and how you've witnessed relevant events
• A clear, factual, dated account of specific incidents you've directly observed
• The impact you've witnessed on the person's wellbeing, safety, or daily life
• Your contact details in case the court needs to follow up

What makes this evidence genuinely useful to a court

Specific, dated, first-hand observations carry far more weight than general impressions. "I witnessed X shouting and blocking the doorway on [date]" is much stronger than "I know things have been difficult." Stick to what you've directly seen or heard rather than what you've been told secondhand, unless clearly identified as such.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I need to attend court in person?
This depends on the case — sometimes a written statement is sufficient, though you may be asked to attend if your evidence is challenged or the court needs clarification.

Is my safety protected if I provide this statement?
Courts take witness safety seriously in these cases — if you have safety concerns about providing a statement, raise this with the person's solicitor or a domestic abuse support service before proceeding.

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Postcode]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]

[Safety note: Do not include any address or contact details for the person being protected that the abuser does not already know.]

To the Court,

Subject: Supporting statement – application for [a non-molestation order / an occupation order] by [Name of Applicant]

I am writing to support [Name of Applicant]'s application for protection under Part IV of the Family Law Act 1996. I am their [relationship, e.g. sister / neighbour / friend] and have known them for [number] years.

What I have seen or heard:
• [Date]: [e.g. I heard shouting and a crash from their home and saw bruising on their arm the next day.]
• [Date]: [e.g. [Name of Respondent] sent them dozens of threatening messages, which I saw.]
• [Date]: [e.g. they arrived at my home late at night, frightened, and stayed with me.]

The effect on [Name of Applicant]: [e.g. they are frightened to go home, have stopped seeing friends and are not sleeping].

The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 recognises that abuse can include controlling or coercive behaviour, threats and emotional abuse, as well as violence.

I believe [Name of Applicant] needs urgent protection. I am willing to give further evidence if the court needs it.

I have encouraged [Name of Applicant] to contact specialist support, such as the National Domestic Abuse Helpline.

Yours faithfully,

[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]