Domestic abuse is serious, harmful and widespread and is often hidden. It happens in all kinds of relationships, regardless of race, class, religion, culture, age, sexuality, disability or gender. Everyone has the right to live their life free from fear, intimidation and abuse.
If you believe you are in an abusive relationship, there are three important steps you can consider -
- recognise that it is happening to you
- accept that you are not to blame
- access information, help and support
“I have really learnt a lot. I have really enjoyed coming and have met some lovely women. I now have a good awareness of DA thank to everyone in the group”
Types of domestic abuse
Domestic abuse can take many forms, including -
- physical abuse or the threat of
- coercive and controlling behaviour
- harassment and stalking
- threats
- continual put downs and name calling
- sexual violence and abuse, inappropriate sexual behaviour such as cyber flashing or revenge porn
- threatening to take the children or using contact to continue to control and abuse
- isolation
- economic control
- emotional abuse
- forced marriage
- ‘honour crimes’
Recognising that you are in an abusive relationship is the first step to getting help.
Everyone has arguments, and everyone disagrees with their partners, family members, and others close to them from time to time. We all do things at times that we regret, and which cause unhappiness to those we care about. But if this begins to form a consistent pattern, then it is an indication of domestic abuse.
It might not be easy to identify domestic abuse at first. While some relationships are abusive from the outset, abuse often starts subtly and gets worse over time.
“I didn’t recognise my situation as being abusive. I thought this was how it is”
We can offer a range of support and advice to help you.