The government definition of domestic violence and abuse is:

“Any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality.”

Section 3 of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 came into force on 31 January 2022 and specifically provides that a child (under 18 years old) who sees, hears, or experiences the effects of domestic abuse and is related to the victim or the suspect is also to be regarded as a victim.

Domestic Abuse Act 2021

Domestic abuse can include, but is not limited to:

• Physical abuse
• Economic abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Sexual abuse
• ‘honour’-based abuse and forced marriage
• Stalking and harassment
• Online abuse and tracking

The theme that will run through all forms of abuse is coercive control.

Coercive control can look different across relationships. It often involves someone controlling another’s behaviour, what they wear, where they go and who they see. This can be done subtly and doesn’t always involve the person causing harm ‘telling’ you what to do – you may find yourself changing your behaviour to avoid the consequences of not doing complying with things you have learned they like or don’t like.

Domestic abuse doesn’t often end when the relationship ends.

Physical abuse – The use of physical force to hurt, control, or intimidate someone, such as hitting, pushing, or restraining them.

Economic abuse – Controlling or limiting someone’s access to money, resources, or employment to make them financially dependent.

Emotional abuse – Behaviour that harms a person’s emotional wellbeing or self-worth, such as insults, manipulation, threats, or constant criticism.

Sexual abuse – Any sexual activity or behaviour that happens without consent, including coercion, assault, or unwanted sexual contact.

‘Honour’-based abuse and forced marriage – Abuse committed to protect or defend perceived family or community ‘honour’, including forcing someone into a marriage without their full and free consent.

Stalking and harassment – Repeated, unwanted attention or behaviour that causes fear, distress, or alarm, such as following someone, constant messages, or threats.

Online abuse and tracking – Using digital tools or the internet to harass, threaten, monitor, or control someone, such as abusive messages, social media harassment, or tracking their location.

Anyone is at risk of experiencing abuse, regardless of age, gender, sexuality, race or socioeconomic background.

If you are concerned about your relationship with a partner or family member, talk to us. Click Here