What is domestic abuse?

Anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, socio-economic status, sexuality or background. Domestic abuse is not always physical violence. It can also include:

  • coercive control and ‘gaslighting’
  • economic abuse
  • online abuse
  • threats and intimidation
  • emotional abuse
  • sexual abuse
  • forced marriage
  • honour violence

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.

Remember, you are not to blame for what is happening. You are not alone, and above all you do not have to suffer in silence.

Where can I get help?

If you are a victim of domestic abuse there are a number of resources available to support you.

Police

If you are in immediate danger ring 999 - press 55 when prompted if you can't speak.

Womens Aid

Womens Aid are at the forefront of shaping and coordinating responses to domestic abuse. If you are in need of information and support, please email at helpline@womensaid.org.uk or contact a local domestic abuse service by using our Domestic Abuse Directory

Bright Sky

An app for anyone experiencing domestic abuse or who is worried about someone. It's focused on how to spot signs of domestic abuse, how to support someone & ways to find help. Access to a UK-wide directory of specialist domestic abuse support services with contacts & nationwide helplines.

Domestic Violence Against Men

Official statistics and surveys reveal what some would regard as a surprisingly high proportion of women inflicting physical harm as well as emotional, psychological and coercive control over their male partner. The same is true in same-sex relationships. Call: 0800 970 2070 Text: NCDV to 60777

Safe space

UK SAYS NO MORE is working with Boots UK, Superdrug pharmacies, Morrisons pharmacies and independent pharmacies across the UK to provide Safe Spaces in their consultation rooms for people experiencing domestic abuse.

How to access a Safe Space

  • Walk into any participating pharmacy in the UK.
  • Ask at the healthcare counter to use their Safe Space.
  • A pharmacist will show you to the Safe Space. Which will be the consultancy room.
  • Once inside, you will find displayed specialist domestic abuse support information for you to access, to make that call or access Bright Sky safely.

Refuge

Refuge is an organisation which provides support for women and children experiencing domestic violence. They also offer a freephone 24 hour national domestic abuse helpline 0808 2000 247

Respect

Respect is a pioneering UK domestic abuse organisation leading the development of safe, effective work with perpetrators, male victims and young people using violence in their close relationships.

National LGBT Domestic Abuse Helpline

Emotional and practical support for LGBT+ people Phone: 0800 999 5428

Guidance for managers

If an employee has confided in you that they are a victim of domestic abuse, help them to consider building their social network of support.

The most dangerous time for victims of domestic abuse is often when they attempt to leave. 

If you have concerns that an employee is vulnerable, ensure there is available time to check in with them, maintaining connection to their workplace and their peer group, reducing isolation.

Our Employee Assistance Program is available 24/7 to support employees using a freephone number 0800 028 0199 or online support https://healthassuredeap.co.uk/ Username Loughborough Password University. The online app can be found here : download ‘My healthy advantage’ app from the google or play store then use the  access code MHA119084