Women’s Aid support survivors of domestic abuse, working to ensure women are believed, know abuse is not their fault and that their experiences have been understood.

I am working with Women’s Aid as a Parliamentary Champion by calling on the government to tackle the causes and consequences of domestic abuse.

Domestic abuse can happen to anyone, regardless of age, background, gender, religion, sexuality or ethnicity. However, statistics show most domestic abuse is carried out by men and experienced by women.

You are not alone – find local support from Women’s Aid by clicking here. If you feel unsafe, you can contact the 24-hour Domestic Abuse Helpline run by Refuge on 0808 2000 247.

Anyone forced to change their behaviour because they are frightened of their partner or ex-partner’s reaction is experiencing abuse.

Spotting the signs

• Is your partner jealous and possessive?
• Is he charming one minute and abusive the next?
• Does he tell you what to wear, where to go, who to see?
• Does he constantly put you down?
• Does he play mind games and make you doubt your judgment?
• Does he control your money, or make sure you are dependent on him for everyday things?
• Does he pressure you to have sex when you don’t want to?
• Are you starting to walk on eggshells to avoid making him angry?
• Does he control your access to medicine, devices or care that you need?
• Does he monitor or track your movements or messages?
• Does he use anger and intimidation to frighten and control you?

Domestic abuse can take many forms

• Psychological Abuse
• Economic Abuse
• Sexual Abuse
• Coercive Control
• Physical Abuse
• Tech Abuse

Women’s Aid have a team of highly trained, female advisors that will talk to you in confidence and support you to increase your safety.

Also, Women’s Aid can help you seek refuge and other services. As someone fleeing domestic abuse, you may want to access specialist refuge accommodation. The 24-hour helpline can help you find a refuge vacancy for you and your children; please call them for more information. They can also help you find other specialist services across the community.