Domestic abuse refers to any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse perpetrated by a current or ex-partner or family member.

Domestic abuse can take different forms – see below. It can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, religion, sexuality or ethnicity and unfortunately, is commonly experienced. It can also be well hidden from family or friends outside of the abusive relationship. Sometimes an individual themselves may not recognise they are in an abusive relationship.

Most people will experience some difficulties in their relationships, but to know whether a relationship is abusive you should look at how the behaviour of your partner or family member makes you feel. If you feel scared, intimidated, controlled or unable to talk to anyone about what you are experiencing, it is likely this is abuse.

For those who are experiencing abuse it is important to understand this abuse is not your fault, is not acceptable and you have a right to feel safe, and live independently without fear. There is help available below. You can also report the abuse to the police who are trained to respond effectively to survivors of domestic abuse. It is important to seek support/help, particularly if the abuse is getting worse, you feel unsafe or in danger and/or if you are pregnant or have young children.

You may not want other people to know that you’ve been searching for information or help. When you browse the internet on a mobile phone, tablet or computer, you leave a ‘history’ trail of pages and sites you’ve visited. If you’re worried about someone knowing which sites you’ve been looking at, there are some things you can do to help cover your tracks. Visit https://www.victimsupport.org.uk/covering-your-tracks-online/