Domestic abuse

Domestic abuse is the abuse of someone within an intimate or family relationship. It is the repeated, random and habitual use of intimidation to control another person - usually a partner, ex-partner or other family member.

The abuse can be physical, emotional, psychological, financial or sexual. Anyone forced to alter their behaviour because they're frightened of someone's reaction is being abused.

It can include:

  • physical or sexual abuse of you or your children
  • deliberately frightening you
  • destroying your property
  • threatening or behaving badly to you or your children
  • insisting on knowing where you are all the time

Psychological or emotional abuse can be just as damaging as physical violence - and the effects can be longer-lasting. Financial abuse and social isolation are also common features.

What can you do?

If you, or someone you know is threatened by domestic violence:

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