Spotlight: Neurodivergence and Domestic Abuse: What Professionals Need to Know
Domestic abuse does not affect everyone in the same way. Neurodivergent people, including those with autism, ADHD, learning differences and other cognitive differences, can face heightened vulnerability and additional barriers to support. For professionals, this requires more than awareness. It requires adjusted practice.
Why Neurodivergent People May Be at Increased Risk
Research suggests that up to 84 % of neurodivergent individuals report having experienced some form of domestic abuse in their lifetime, and they are roughly two to three times more likely to experience abuse from a partner compared with neurotypical adults. This is not because of the neurodivergence itself, but because perpetrators exploit perceived vulnerabilities.
Risk factors can include:
- Social isolation or smaller support networks
- A strong preference for routine and predictability
- Literal interpretation of language
- Difficulties recognising manipulation or coercive control
- Previous experiences of bullying or exclusion
- Financial dependence
Perpetrators may deliberately position themselves as a “carer” or the only person who understands the individual. This can increase dependency and reduce the likelihood of disclosure.
How Abuse May Present Differently
Abuse experienced by neurodivergent victims may include:
- Withholding sensory aids, medication or assistive devices
- Sabotaging routines
- Using overstimulation as punishment
- Gaslighting linked to memory or processing differences
- Exploiting communication differences in family or court proceedings
In some cases, behaviours linked to trauma responses may be misinterpreted as “challenging behaviour”, leading to further marginalisation rather than safeguarding.
Professionals must take care not to pathologise trauma responses.
Barriers to Disclosure and Support
Neurodivergent victims may face additional obstacles, including:
- Fear of not being believed
- Communication differences that affect how disclosure is made
- Previous negative experiences with services
- Concerns about child removal or capacity being questioned
- Services that are not sensory-accessible or trauma-informed
Standard risk assessment tools like DASH may not always capture the full picture unless practitioners adapt their approach and allow time for processing.
Practice Considerations
To improve response:
- Allow additional time for assessment and processing
- Use clear, concrete language
- Avoid metaphors or implied meanings
- Check understanding rather than assuming it
- Consider sensory needs when arranging appointments
- Explore patterns of coercive control explicitly
Above all, do not assume capacity, vulnerability or resilience based solely on diagnosis. Each case requires individualised assessment.
Why This Matters
Neurodivergent victims are often under-identified within domestic abuse assessments. At the same time, perpetrators may weaponise stigma or perceived difference to maintain control. If we do not adapt our practice, we risk replicating exclusion.
Domestic abuse is about power and control. When neurodivergence intersects with abuse, that control can become more complex and more hidden. Professionals must remain curious, flexible and responsive.
Support from GDASS
GDASS can provide:
- Professional consultation
- Risk assessment guidance
- Safety planning tailored to individual needs
- Training on domestic abuse and neurodivergence
If you would like advice on a case or further training for your team, please contact GDASS through the usual referral routes.
Recognising neurodivergence within domestic abuse work is not a specialist add-on. It is core to equitable and effective safeguarding practice.
Sector News
Domestic Abuse Commissioner Responds to Police Reform White Paper
The Domestic Abuse Commissioner has welcomed the UK government’s Police Reform White Paper, highlighting stronger misconduct powers and improved domestic abuse training as key steps to protect victims. She emphasised the urgent need for reforms to be implemented promptly to ensure frontline policing meets the needs of survivors. Read more here.
Tech firms must remove abusive images within 48 hours
The UK government is introducing a new rule requiring technology companies to remove non‑consensual intimate images, including revenge‑style and deepfake content, within 48 hours of being reported. Platforms that fail to comply could face fines of up to 10 % of global revenue or even have their services blocked in the UK, and victims will only need to report once for removal across multiple sites. The change is part of a wider effort to strengthen protections against tech‑facilitated abuse of women and girls. Read more here.
Research and Resources
First Light Research: Experiences of Online Dating and Abuse
First Light are conducting research into online dating and digital abuse, exploring the types of harm people may experience when using dating platforms and how safe individuals feel online. The research also aims to understand what support services currently offer, where support is available, and how people are signposted throughout their support journey. The findings will help shape future campaigns, improve responses to online dating abuse, and inform wider awareness work, with an option to attend an online session presenting the results. Professionals and support services can complete the survey here, and anyone who has used a dating app can take part in the anonymous public survey here.
Evidence on Housing First for middle‑aged and older women
As part of the First Light ‘Happy Healthy Love’ campaign, anyone who has used a dating app is invited to take part in a short, anonymous survey. The survey explores experiences such as unsolicited messages or images and how safe people feel on dating platforms. Findings will help shape future campaigns on online dating and digital abuse. The survey can be accessed here.
Hidden Toll of Domestic Abuse on Healthcare Staff
A new survey led by researchers at the University of Bristol and NHS partners found that 56 % of healthcare workers surveyed had experienced domestic abuse, with many reporting impacts on their wellbeing and ability to work. Over a third said abuse affected their job performance and more than a quarter had taken time off because of it, yet 84 % had not sought workplace support due to concerns about confidentiality and stigma. The study highlights the need for better workplace policies, trauma‑informed support and clear referral routes for staff affected by abuse. Read more here.
Jobs at GDASS
Domestic Abuse Support Worker
Working across our Helpdesk and Floating Support teams, the successful candidate will provide vital support to victims and survivors of domestic abuse (16+) across Gloucestershire. This includes:
- Assessing and identifying risk levels
- Creating tailored support plans focused on safety and recovery
- Providing advocacy and empowering clients to understand the dynamics of abuse
- Signposting and referring clients to appropriate support service
Location: Gloucester
Salary: £24,865 per annum
Hours: 37 hours per week (Full Time)
Contract: Permanent
This is a rewarding opportunity to be part of an established service making a tangible difference to the lives of those affected by domestic abuse in Gloucestershire.
To find out more or to apply, please click here.