What is domestic abuse?

Pippa Helpline: 023 8091 7917

Domestic abuse means any threats, violence, controlling or coercive behaviour that takes place between family members or people aged over 16 who are in a relationship with each other (or have been in the past).

Family members are defined as mother, father, sister, brother and grandparents; whether directly related, in-laws or step family.

Domestic abuse can happen regardless of social group, class, age, race, disability or sexuality of the individuals involved.

Domestic abuse can affect men, women and those who identify as non-binary. It can occur in any relationship - heterosexual, gay, lesbian, bisexual, young or old.

It is a pattern of behaviour used by abusers designed to establish and maintain power and control over another person.

If you, or anyone else, is at immediate risk of harm, telephone the police on 999.

For help call the National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 2000 247 (24 hrs)

If you are in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the police.

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