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Domestic Violence

Domestic violence cuts across different crime categories and includes a number of offences that take place in a domestic context.  It is generally defined as the physical, sexual, emotional and mental abuse by married or unmarried partners or ex-partners, and includes assault, sexual violence, threats to kill, murder and attempted murder.

The key issue is the misuse of power and exercise of control by one person over another.  The control may be enforced by behaviours which are not always criminal in themselves, but are aimed at restricting someone’s privacy and liberty.  These may include:

·   Manipulation

·   Verbal abuse

·   Curtailment of freedom

·   Restricting contact with family or friends

·   Screening telephone calls

·   Withholding and controlling money

It is estimated that one in four women, and one in six men suffers domestic violence at some time in their lives and that domestic violence accounts for one-quarter of all violent crime.  In addition, it is estimated that two women are killed by their current or former partner every week.

Are you experiencing or being threatened with:

Emotional abuse

Being verbally abused

Constantly blamed for things

Being put down

Kept from friends and/or family

Economic abuse

Being kept without money

Having wages, benefits taken away

Having to account for everything you spend

Physical abuse

Punching

Slapping

Pulling hair

Biting

Sexual abuse

Rape

Forced vaginal/anal penetration

Indecent telephone calls

YOU ARE NOT ALONE!

·   We can offer support and practical advice to assist in your current situation

·   We encourage and assist you in proceeding with your chosen path

·   If your chosen path is refuge, we can assist with finding accommodation

·   We will accompany you on visits to solicitors and the courts

·   We can link you with solicitors and other community agencies who will help you

 Other helpful organisations

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