Domestic Abuse

Domestic abuse does not have to be physical

Abuse may also be psychological, sexual, financial or emotional. Sometimes victims may not even be aware it is happening. Children who witness domestic abuse are victims too.

We can also help if you have been a victim of coercive control. Coercive control is an act or sometimes a pattern of acts of assault, threats, humiliation and intimidation or other abuse that is used to harm, punish, or frighten a victim.

This controlling behaviour is designed to make a person dependent by isolating them from support, exploiting them, depriving them of independence and regulating their everyday behaviour. Examples include:

• Isolating you from friends and family
• Controlling your finances
• Making threats or intimidating you
• Monitoring your time
• Monitoring you via online communication tools or spyware
• Taking control over aspects of your everyday life, such as where you can go, who you can see, what you can wear and when you can sleep
• Depriving you of access to support services, such as medical services
• Repeatedly putting you down, such as saying you’re worthless
• Humiliating, degrading or dehumanising you

Domestic abuse occurs amongst people from all walks of life, of all backgrounds and of all ages. Although often seen as committed by men against women, victims can also be male or individuals who are in a same-sex relationship.

Supporting you every step of the way

We know how hard it can be to navigate moments that are emotionally challenging and that is why we don’t just focus on the legal work. We make the wellbeing of you and your children a priority throughout and have partnered with other people we know and trust and who are as good in their fields as we are in ours.

Visit our support hub for information about coaching, wellbeing and support services.