Guidance and information
What is domestic abuse?
Domestic abuse is when someone behaves abusively towards a person they’re personally connected to.
Domestic abuse can be perpetrated in many different ways. These actions fall into the categories of:
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Emotional and psychological abuse
- Economic abuse
Domestic abuse could happen to anyone. It is never acceptable and is definitely not healthy. Abuse does not always mean being hit, it also includes sexual abuse and bullying.
Domestic abuse is not always carried out by a partner, it could be an ex-partner or a family member. It also includes honour-based abuse such as forced marriage and female genital mutilation.
It can happen to people who identify as straight, lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. Your sexual orientation or your gender identity do not make you less likely to experience domestic abuse.
If you are feeling intimidated by a partner (or ex-partner or family member), or they have made you feel frightened, then you may be experiencing domestic abuse.
Need help?
Contact our helpdesk for immediate advice and support. Call 01452 726570 or email support@gdass.org.uk. We're open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.