domestic abuse or violence

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If you, or someone you know, has been subjected to domestic abuse, please contact us for advice and support.  We are here to listen and help, and we can talk you through the options available, and offer help to access appropriate services, support agencies and security measures.

Domestic abuse includes, but is not limited to:

• Physical abuse – physical abuse can include hitting, punching, kicking, slapping, hitting with objects, restraining, strangulation, choking, pushing or shoving
• Sexual abuse – sexual abuse can include rape, coerced sex, forcing someone to take part in unwanted sexual acts, refusal to practice safe sex or use contraception
• Psychological abuse – psychological abuse can include isolating someone (not allowing them to see friends or family), using threats (to harm their family, children, friends, pets etc.), humiliation, embarrassing or undermining someone in front of others
• Financial abuse – financial abuse includes the control of someone’s money or bank accounts, refusing to allow someone to work, building up debts in their name.
• Coercive behaviour is an act or pattern of acts of assault, threats, humiliation, intimidation, or other abuse used to harm, punish, or frighten the victim.
• Controlling behaviour is a range of acts designed to make a person dependent by isolating them from sources of support, depriving them of the means of living independently, and regulating their everyday behaviour.
• Stalking is the unwanted, persistent harassment or attention of another person. This can take place in person or digitally, via the internet known as cyber-stalking.

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