Domestic abuse  can happen to anyone, regardless of age, social background, gender, religion, sexuality or ethnicity.

The majority of victims of domestic abuse are women but it can happen to men too.  The abuse can be physical, emotional, psychological, financial or sexual. Everyone has arguments and may disagree with their partners, family members and others close to them from time to time, however anyone forced to alter their behaviour because they are frightened of their partner’s or family member’s reaction is being abused. It can begin at any stage of the relationship. Domestic abuse is rarely a one-off. Incidents generally become more frequent and severe over time.

Find out more about how to recognise domestic abuse.