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Domestic abuse is:
Any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, physical, sexual, financial, emotional) between those aged 16 or over who are or have been intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality.
The abuser can use a pattern of behaviour(s) that is both abusive and controlling. This behaviour is designed to give control and power over their victims and isolate them from other people and support. They can also deprive people of their independence and try to control and regulate their everyday behaviour.
The effects of domestic abuse can be both frightening and devastating. If you, or someone you know is suffering from domestic abuse we are here to help you. Talk to us or someone you trust and together we can stop domestic abuse.
The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 creates the first statutory definition of domestic abuse which includes not only physical violence but that of emotional, coercive and controlling behaviour and economic abuse. This can be limited to a single event or a series of actions. Children will now be given statutory recognition as “victims” rather than “witnesses” if they see, hear or experience abuse in the home.
The Act has extended the scope of coercive and controlling behaviour to incorporate abuse post-separation. The offence, will widen the parameters of “personally connected” to include ex-partners and family members who do not live together.
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If an incident occurs:
• Try to leave before the incident gets worse and go to a safe place if possible, if not try to remain calm and near to an escape route in case you can leave quickly.
• When it is safe, get out of danger as soon as possible and go to a safe place. This may be with friends, family or someone you can trust.
• Always call 999 in an emergency or use a pre-agreed code word to alert family or friends to call the police for you.
• Keep a record of what has happened to you, including damage to your home and belongings to give to the police.
Report domestic abuse to the police straight away; nationally it takes on average 35 incidents before someone will ask the police for help, so please do something about this sooner as chances are it will happen again.
If you, or someone you know is suffering from domestic abuse we are here to help you. Talk to us or someone you trust and together we can stop domestic abuse.
Everyone is entitled to live safely without fear of violence or abuse.
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Everyone is entitled to live safely without fear of violence or abuse.
If you or someone you know is suffering from domestic abuse, talk to us - we are here to help you.
This form will take about five to ten minutes to complete, so please make sure you’re safe to take that time to complete it.
Your report will go to our 24/7 contact centre and will be reviewed within a few hours at most.
We won’t send you a receipt email, as this could be a threat to your safety.
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