Domestic Abuse

Domestic abuse, or domestic violence, includes a range of abusive behaviour (either physical, sexual, financial, psychological or emotional) between people 16 years or older, who are or were intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender.

Domestic abuse can happen to anyone; partners; ex-partners; family members; regardless of sexuality or gender orientation, race, background or upbringing.

Children and young people can also be affected by the abuse that they see and hear, and they can be harmed as part of domestic abuse between adults. Young people may also experience abuse from their own boyfriend/girlfriend.

This page contains details of where to get help and further support.

What is domestic abuse?

Domestic abuse can come in many forms from the people we know, including: 

• Physical and sexual violence
• Living in fear of further violence
• Threats of violence or harming children
• Breaking objects
• Hurting pets
• Using abusive language
• Isolating an individual from family and friends
• Controlling behaviour, such as access to money or depriving a person of their independence
• Coercive behaviour, such as frightening, humiliating or intimidating someone.  

If you think you – or someone you know – are a victim of domestic abuse, we will investigate in a sensitive way.

We will support you and ensure confidentiality at all times, work in partnership with relevant agencies and take appropriate action if necessary.