Domestic and Relationship Abuse

Domestic and Relationship Abuse

Domestic and relationship abuse can be an incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over, who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality. This can include forced marriage, so-called ‘honour-based’ violence and ritual abuse. 

The abuse can include, but is not limited to: 

-  Psychological

- Physical

-  Sexual

- Financial

- Emotional

Controlling behaviour is a range of acts designed to make a person subordinate and/or dependent by isolating them from sources of support, exploiting their resources and capacities for personal gain, depriving them of the means needed for independence, resistance and escape and regulating their everyday behaviour. 

Coercive behaviour is an act or a pattern of acts of assault, threats, humiliation and intimidation or other abuse that is used to harm, punish, frighten, isolate or create dependence.  

Specific Support:

National Domestic Abuse Helpline Information and support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse.

Refuge Information and support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse.

Women's Aid Information and support for women experiencing domestic abuse.

Respect Information and support for men who experience domestic violence.

Karma Nirvana Information and support for anyone affected by honour based abuse and forced marriage.

IKWRO Advice and support for Middle Eastern, North African and Afghan women and girls affected by honour based abuse or domestic abuse.