What is abuse?

Domestic abuse is a pattern of behaviour on the part of the abuser designed to control his partner. It can happen at any point in a relationship, including after you have split up.

Anyone forced to change their behaviour because they are frightened of their partner or ex-partner’s reaction is experiencing abuse.

Domestic abuse can happen to anyone, regardless of age, background, gender, religion, sexuality or ethnicity. However, statistics show most domestic abuse is carried out by men and experienced by women.

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

Domestic abuse is a crime.

Spotting the signs

• Is your partner jealous and possessive?
• Is he charming one minute and abusive the next?
• Does he tell you what to wear, where to go, who to see?
• Does he constantly put you down?
• Does he play mind games and make you doubt your judgment?
• Does he control your money?
• Does he pressure you to have sex when you don’t want to?
• Are you starting to walk on eggshells to avoid making him angry?
• Does he monitor or track your movements or messages?
• Does he use anger and intimidation to frighten and control you?

Call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline

You can call us, for free and in confidence, 24-hours a day.

0808 2000 247

We understand it can be difficult to pick up the phone.

You can now chat to us online, live: Monday – Friday, 3pm – 6pm 

Online and Telephone Support