Domestic abuse
Anyone can experience abusive behaviour in a relationship, from a partner, ex-partner or a family member.
What is domestic abuse?
Domestic abuse is an incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening, degrading and violent behaviour, including sexual violence.
For the first time, a legal definition of domestic abuse was introduced as part of the Domestic Abuse Act, which became law in 2021.
Abusive behaviour may include:
- physical assault
- being controlling
- coercive control (a pattern of intimidation, degradation, isolation and control with the use or threat of physical or sexual violence)
- stalking and harassment
- threats
- harassment – through phone calls, texting, on line, as well as physical
- financial control
- emotional abuse
- sexual assault
- stalking
- belittling comments
- enforced isolation from family, friends and the community (such as honour based violence
Report abuse
If this is happening to you, it is important to remember that it is not your fault, it can be stopped and you need help and support to keep safe.
If you feel in immediate danger as a result of domestic abuse, dial 999 straight away and wait in a safe place for the police to arrive.
If you are worried someone might be watching what you do online, you can get further advice on how to protect yourself online from Refuge or Norfolk Police.
Get help via our Help Hub
If you are concerned about yours or a loved ones relationship its important to get advice and support to stay safe.
We work with a number of partner services across Broadland and South Norfolk. If you are experiencing domestic abuse or are concerned you might be, the Help Hub can help you get the right support.
Contact the Help Hub on 01508 533933 or 01603 430431
Email: helphub@southnorfolkandbroadland.gov.uk