Domestic violence

Domestic violence and abuse is:
- An unacceptable crime which affects
people from all social and economic backgrounds, regardless of age,
ethnicity, religion or sexual orientation
- Any action involving abuse within
an intimate or family-type relationship. The abuse occurs when a
person causes, attempts to cause, or threatens to cause emotional,
sexual or physical harm to an intimate partner or other family
member
- A pattern of coercive behaviour by
an individual to establish and maintain power and control over
another (as relationship defined above). This type of behaviour
takes many forms, including physical, sexual, economic and
emotional abuse, isolation and the selective destruction of
property and pets and includes forced marriages and ‘honour
crimes.’
- Rarely a one off event. It can
escalate in frequency and severity over time. The majority of
victims are women but domestic violence happens to men as well.
ANYONE CAN BE A VICTIM
Domestic violence and abuse is a
crime and will not be tolerated. If you are experiencing abuse it
is important to tell someone before it gets worse. If what you are
experiencing is particularly serious go into your local police
station for help or if you or your family is in immediate danger
don't be afraid to call the police on 999.
Pages in this section:
Useful contacts and links
Police Domestic Violence Advice - In an
emergency call the police – 999
National
Domestic Abuse Helpline - 0808 2000 247
Also download
the domestic abuse handguide.
