Domestic abuse

What is domestic abuse?

The Home Office defines domestic abuse as 'any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional) between adults who are or have been intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality'.

All forms of domestic abuse whether psychological, economic, emotional, physical and/or sexual are the result of the perpetrator's abuse of power and exercise of control over family members or intimate partners.

How common is domestic abuse?

Domestic abuse is very common. Research estimates that domestic violence accounts for 16% of all violent crime (Source: Crime in England and Wales 2004/2005).

The Home Office reports that one in four women and one in six men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. However, domestic abuse is still under reported by both men and women.

Who are the victims?

Domestic abuse can occur regardless of ethnicity, religion, class, age, sexuality, disability or lifestyle.

Children are also victims of domestic abuse whether they witness it, or are directly abused themselves.

Domestic abuse is repetitive and can destroy lives.

Everyone has the right to live in a safe and secure environment. If you are a victim of domestic abuse or know someone who is, there is help available.

Last Updated: 07 January 08,
Review Date: 20 September 2005