Information
What is Domestic Abuse?
Domestic abuse is defined in law as the physical, emotional, psychological, sexual or economic abuse by…
Signs of Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse often starts with small changes. They are hard to name and easy to explain away.
Many survivors describe a gradual erosion of confidence, safety, and joy. What once felt loving begins to feel tense, confusing, or exhausting. We may not recognise what’s happening at first, and that is not a failure on our part.
How the Law Can Protect You
It is important to know that whatever decision you make, NCDV will listen to you and help you find the best route forward. Applying for an injunction can feel confusing, but we will help you make sense of it all.
The word ‘injunction’ describes any court order that forbids someone from acting in a certain way.
Domestic Physical Abuse
Physical violence is not always a feature of domestic abuse and coercive control, but when it shows up, it is frightening, and often dangerous. Witnessing physical violence can impact children too, who are considered victims in their own right.
Emotional & Coercive Control
Coercive control is often quiet, gradual, and deeply confusing. It is not about one argument or one incident. It is about a pattern of behaviour that slowly takes away a person’s freedom, confidence, and sense of self
Male Survivors of Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse can affect anyone – including men.
In England and Wales, around 1 in 6 men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime, according to the Home Office. On average, one man a month is killed by a current or former partner.
Domestic Abuse Myths
Myth: It only counts as abuse if there’s physical violence.
Reality: Abuse includes coercive control, emotional abuse, sexual coercion, financial control, and threats. Violence is not required.
