Domestic abuse ruins lives, don't keep it to yourself
Domestic abuse is happening every day, in
every part of the UK.
One incident of domestic abuse is reported to police nationally
every minute.
1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men will be affected at sometime in
their lives by domestic abuse.
Whether you’re experiencing domestic abuse or think your friend or
loved one might be, this section of our site provides you
with advice on where you can turn for help, actions you
can take and how we can help.
What is Domestic Abuse?
Domestic abuse is any incident of threatening behaviour,
violence or abuse. The violence can include physical, sexual,
emotional or financial abuse, threats and damage.
- Physical — beating, kicking, slapping,
punching, burning, strangulation, stabbing, denying sleep, pulling
hair, biting
- Sexual — rape, sexual assault, enforced sex or
prostitution, pornography, or any other sexual behaviour or
activity that you find unacceptable.
- Psychological / Emotional — jealousy,
humiliation, degradation, systematic criticism, put-downs,
intimidation, isolation from family and friends, withholding sex,
threats or suicide.
- Verbal — verbal abuse, aggressive response or
threats to harm.
- Financial — being kept without money or forced
to account for you’re spending, having your wages or benefits taken
from you.
- Honour Based Violence – forced marriage,
female genital mutilation, dowry abuse.
Victims can be subjected to any or all of the above, regardless
of age, ethnicity, religion, sexuality, disability, lifestyle or
class.
Domestic Abuse is a crime!
As a victim, you have done nothing wrong. You are not to
blame.
To report incidents of domestic abuse, in an emergency dial: 999
or for non-emergencies dial: 101 (in Wales) or 0845 6071002 (from
outside Wales)