Domestic Violence

What Is It?

Domestic violence is the abuse of one partner within an intimate or family relationship. It is the repeated or random use of intimidation to control a partner. Victims can be male or female. The abuse can be physical, emotional, psychological, financial or sexual. Anyone forced to alter their behaviour because they are frightened of their partner’s reaction is being abused. It’s good to remember the abuse is not the victims fault.

What Might Help?

• Talk to someone.
• Childline. You can call Childline (0800 1111) or the NSPCC (0808 800 5000) for free, confidential advice.
• A teacher, doctor or other adult you trust. They will want to make sure that you and your family are safe so they might want to talk to your parents/carers also.
• The police. If your family needs help right away you should call the Police on 999. Don’t hang up – if you do, the police might call back and this could give the abuser the chance to tell them that everything is okay. It’s better to leave the phone off the hook so they can hear what is going on. The police will come to your house and talk to you and your family to make sure you are ok.
• Seeking professional help. Being exposed to domestic violence repeatedly can have a huge impact on your feelings and you may benefit from counselling to make sense of these experiences.

Useful Clips and Stories:

• Zena’s story
• Michael’s story
• What is domestic violence? – A short film for children

Top App:

• Aspire News. A potentially lifesaving domestic violence alert system, when you go to the “Help” section of the page it provides a list of local domestic violence resource and a “Go Button,” that, once pressed, alerts the user’s chosen contacts, local authorities and service providers about the violent or potentially violent situation. This app is not a replacement for emergency services — in any situation where you feel that you may be at risk, please dial 999.

Extra Info:

• Refuge supports women and children through a range of services (0808 2000 247)
• Men’s Advice Line: confidential helpline (0800 801 0327) for men experiencing domestic violence
• The Free phone 24 Hour National Domestic Violence Helpline (0808 2000 247)