About domestic abuse

About domestic abuse

What is domestic abuse?

Domestic abuse is a pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, it is the misuse of power and control by one person over another. It is never acceptable and we are here to help.

Recognising domestic abuse 

Although every situation is unique, there are common factors that link the experience of an abusive relationship. Acknowledging these factors is an important step in preventing and stopping the abuse.

Am I in an abusive relationship?

Our online questionnaire may help you to recognise if you are in an abusive relationship.

Myths about domestic abuse

There are many myths around domestic abuse and its causes. Help us challenge some of the most widely-believed and deep-rooted misconceptions.

How common is domestic abuse?

We know from our work, and the work of the Women’s Aid federation of services, that domestic abuse is very common, however this is often difficult to accurately quantify.

Woman looking out of window

The impact of domestic abuse

When thinking about the consequences of domestic abuse, it is important to consider the impact (mental, emotional, physical, social and financial) on the individual survivor and her family and children.

Last year, Women’s Aid helped thousands of women escape abuse.

Read more about our impact

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