Domestic abuse is an incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening, degrading and violent behaviour, including sexual violence, in the majority of cases by a partner or ex-partner, but also by a family member or carer, regardless of gender, sexuality, ethnicity or any other characteristic.
The abuse can include, but is not limited to:
- Psychological abuse involves making someone question their own thinking or understanding of situations or impacting their mental health.
- Physical abuse involves hurting or harming someone else, or restricting their freedom of movement.
- Sexual abuse occurs when someone is forced or pressured into any sexual activity without their consent.
- Financial abuse happens when someone controls another person's finances.
- Emotional abuse includes non-physical behaviour that harms mental wellbeing, such as verbal abuse, intimidation, humiliation and excessive control.
Controlling behaviour is a range of acts designed to make a person subordinate and/or dependent by isolating them from sources of support, exploiting their resources and capacities for personal gain, depriving them of the means needed for independence, resistance and escape and regulating their everyday behaviour.
Coercive behaviour is an act or a pattern of acts of assault, threats, humiliation and intimidation or other abuse that is used to harm, punish, frighten, isolate or create dependence.
Examples of controlling or coercive behaviour include but are not limited to:
- Preventing or limiting contact with family, friends, or community.
- Restricting access to transport, school, work, or language learning.
- Depriving access to support services such as healthcare or specialist help.
- Tracking time, online activity, or using spyware.
- Using smart devices or social media to intimidate or upset.
- Controlling daily life (e.g. where someone goes, who they see, what they wear, when they sleep).
- Withholding immigration documents such as passports or visas.
- Blocking access to finances or essential needs.
- Threats to reveal personal information (such as sexual orientation, HIV status, or other private details).
- Reputational damage or claims of family "dishonour".
- Sexual assault or threats of sexual assault.
Anyone can experience Domestic abuse and whatever you want to do, there are organisations that can give you advice and help. Although every situation is unique, there are common factors that link the experience of an abusive relationship. Acknowledging these factors is an important step in preventing and stopping the abuse.
Domestic abuse is contrary to the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, the Prevention of Bullying, Harassment and Sexual Misconduct Policy for staff and the Student Harassment and Sexual Misconduct Policy.
If you are unsure of whether you or someone you know is experiencing Domestic Abuse, you can contact the Report + Support Team by completing a Speak to an Advisor form.
What support is available if I have experienced Domestic Abuse? (Students)
What support is available if I have experienced Domestic Abuse? (Staff)