The UK Government’s definition of domestic violence is “any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behavior, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality. The abuse can encompass, but is not limited to psychological, physical, sexual, financial, emotional”

 

Domestic violence is very common – research shows that it will affect 1 in 4 women in their lifetime, regardless of age, social class, race, disability or lifestyle.

 

Domestic violence refers to a range of behaviours by a partner (male or female), family member or carer and can include emotional, physical, psychological, sexual and financial abuse.

 

Remember – It is not your fault. You are not alone.  
If any of these things are happening to you and you would like support we will do all we can to help you.

Are you feeling that:

 

  • You are worthless
  • There is no choice but to put up with things
  • As long as the children are OK it’s worth staying
  • The children may be taken into care if you ask for help
  • You couldn’t financially support yourself if you left

 

You may be experiencing:

 

  • Emotional – constant criticism, being shouted at
  • Physical – being slapped, kicked, bitten, hit, punched
  • Psychological – prevented from seeing family and friends, stopped from going out to work, threatened with violence or told you may lose your children if you leave.
  • Sexual – made to have sex, sexual degradation
  • Financial – kept short of money, made to apply for loans in your name

 

For Advice: 01473 228 270

 

Our helpline provides advice and support to women
experiencing domestic abuse.

 

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