Domestic abuse is categorised by any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or 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 encompass but is not limited to the following types of abuse:

• physical
• emotional
• psychological
• sexual
• financial

This definition includes honour-based abuse and forced marriage, and is clear that victims are not confined to one gender or ethnic group. The frequency and severity of domestic violence can vary dramatically, just one encounter counts as abuse, and it can be an ongoing pattern of behaviour. However, the one constant element of domestic abuse is the abuser's consistent efforts to maintain power and control over the victim. Domestic abuse can affect anyone regardless of ethnicity, age, gender, sexuality or social background.

Domestic abuse is never the fault of the person who is experiencing it.

Domestic abuse is a crime.

 

You do not have to wait for an emergency situation to find help. If domestic abuse is happening to you, it’s important to tell someone and remember you’re not alone.