Domestic Violence is abusive behaviour used by one partner in a relationship to instil fear and gain power / control over another's life.

Whilst Domestic Violence usually refers to abuse from your partner or ex-partner; it can happen in any close relationship.

Domestic Violence can happen to anyone, regardless of sexual preference: heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual or transgender.

Domestic Violence happens across all communities, all social classes and all regions - the city and the country alike.

Domestic Violence is not acceptable behaviour and you do not have to put up with it.

Domestic Violence is a crime.

The abuse in domestic violence can take many forms. It can be:

Physical - including punching, kicking, pushing, slapping, choking or the use of weapons.

Sexual - being forced to have sex or to participate in sexual activities, either by participating or by watching.

Emotional - includes constant criticism, humiliation, name calling, shouting at you, threatening to harm you, your children or your pets.

Social - includes isolating you,monitoring phone calls, preventing you from seeing friends and family, or from taking part in activities outside the house.

Financial - includes taking control of your money against your will, refusing to give you money or threatening to withdraw access to money.

Stalking - Stalking includes following you, watching you and loitering around your house, or any place that you go.

Harassment and Intimidation - Harassment and intimidation is when your partner or ex-partner: harasses you, makes death threats and/or threatens to hurt or injure you or your family.

You can get help and support.