Domestic abuse is any type of controlling, bullying, threatening or violent behaviour between people in a relationship. But it isn’t just physical violence – domestic abuse includes emotional, physical, sexual, financial or psychological abuse.
Abusive behaviour can occur in any relationship. Both men and women can be abused or abusers.
Domestic abuse can seriously harm children and young people. Witnessing domestic abuse is child abuse, and teenagers can suffer domestic abuse in their relationships.
It is never the victim’s fault, and everyone has the right to feel safe in a relationship.
Getting Help
If you or someone you know is being abused and if someone is at immediate risk of harm, you need to call the police immediately on 999.
There is other support available: please contact your school nurse, call Childline on 08001111 or Women’s Aid on 0808 2000 247.
Useful Contacts
The Hideout
NSPCC
Women’s Aid