Domestic abuse is a crime
Everyone has the right to be safe from abuse and fear.
Domestic abuse can happen to anyone and refers to a wide range of abusive behaviours. It is “domestic” in nature if the perpetrator is a person who is associated with the victim. However, it is not limited to physical violence or confined to instances within the home.
Physical violence is just one aspect of domestic abuse and is not present in all cases. Domestic abuse can involve a wide range of abusive and controlling behaviour, including threats, harassment, financial control and emotional abuse. If you are a victim of domestic violence you may feel extremely isolated and it could take years for you to tell anyone what is happening to you.
Domestic abuse can include physical, psychological, emotional, financial or sexual abuse which takes place in a close relationship – usually between partners, ex-partners or family members. Domestic abuse happens in all cultures; people of all races, ethnicities, religions, genders, ages and backgrounds can experience domestic abuse.