Domestic violence & abuse
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What is domestic abuse?
Domestic abuse (also called domestic violence) is when someone hurts or bullies their partner or another person in the family.
The abuse can happen between people who are going out together, living together, have children together or are married to each other. It is still domestic abuse even if they are not living together.
Domestic abuse is a form of control the abuser uses against their partner. It can happen at any point in a relationship, including after you have split up.
It can happen to anyone, regardless of age, background, gender, religion, sexuality or ethnicity.
Domestic abuse includes:
- coercive control
- psychological and/or emotional abuse
- physical or sexual abuse
- financial or economic abuse
- harassment and stalking
- online or digital abuse
Signs of domestic abuse
There are different kinds of abuse, but it's always about having power and control over you. If you answer yes to any of the following questions, you are experiencing abuse:
- have you ever felt afraid of your partner?
- have you ever changed your behaviour because you're afraid of what your partner might do?
- have you been physically hurt or injured by your partner?
What to do in an emergency
Always call 999 if there is a risk to life or a crime is in progress.
How to get support
If you are worried about someone who is (or may be) in an abusive or violent relationship, the following organisations can help:
Help for women
Black Country Women’s Aid (BCWA) provides help and support. Our domestic violence housing webpages give advice about getting support and emergency refuge accommodation.
Help for men
If you are a victim or you are worried about a friend, family member, work colleague or neighbour you can contact Mankind. This is a dedicated service supporting male victims of domestic abuse, where you can speak to someone confidentially.
