Need help urgently?

If you are in immediate danger, call 999.

Or contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline. Freephone 0808 2000 247

Domestic abuse is controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour between intimate partners or family members. Find out more about the types of domestic abuse.

Abuse from a partner, ex-partner or family member can be one-off, but usually there is a pattern of behaviour intended to control or harm. Read about how to spot the signs of abuse.

Often, the abuse doesn’t end when the relationship ends. It may in fact increase. If you are thinking of leaving your abusive partner, we advise you to get support. No one should be abused in a relationship. We are here to offer support and explore your options with you.

Types of domestic abuse

Domestic abuse is not just about physical violence. Abuse can be psychological and emotional, physical or sexual, financial or economic, or take the form of coercive control or harassment and stalking. It is often a combination of some or all of these things. Non-physical abuse is often down-played, but no less traumatic.

Psychological and emotional abuse

This is where an abuser makes someone feel bad, undermines their confidence, makes them doubt themselves, isolates them from family and friends or any other abusive behaviour designed to have an emotional impact. If there are children in the house, the abuser may use children and the threat of losing them to exert further control.

Physical or sexual abuse

An abuser may be physically violent towards a partner or family member. They may hit, slap or otherwise strike them. The abuser may feel entitled to sex and pressure or force their target to have sexual relations.

Financial or economic abuse

This is where an abuser stops or limits their partner or a family member from having access to family finances, doesn’t allow them to earn money, or takes their money away from them.

Coercive control

Coercive control makes someone dependent on their abuser and isolates them from their network. It is a pattern of behaviour that includes assault, threats, humiliation, intimidation or other abuse. Over time it erodes a person’s self-confidence and sense of worth.

Harassment and stalking

An abuser may demand to know where a partner or family member is at all times and take action to monitor their movements. They may turn up at places where they know their partner will be. This behaviour may continue after the relationship or contact with the abuser has ceased, especially if they are not happy with how the relationship ended.

Domestic abuse and mental health

Domestic abuse can significantly impact your mental health and that of your children. Read about how your body and mind can react.

The impact of domestic abuse on children

Children will be impacted by abuse even if they don’t see it or experience it directly. The effect can last into adulthood. Read about some of the signs of domestic abuse in children.

Next steps

If any of the above apply to you, you may be experiencing domestic abuse. It’s not OK and you don’t have to put up with it. Reach out to us by filling out our referral form or give us a call on 01582 341343.

You can also contact us if you think someone you care about is being abused, or you are a professional looking for information.