What is domestic abuse?
Domestic abuse is any behaviour used to control, harm, threaten or intimidate someone within a personal relationship. It can happen between partners, ex-partners, or family members, and it affects people of all genders, ages, backgrounds and communities.
In the UK, domestic abuse is defined as a pattern of behaviour that may include physical violence, emotional harm, or controlling actions. It does not have to be a single incident, abuse often builds over time and can become more severe.
Types of Domestic Abuse
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
Who does it affect?
Domestic abuse can happen to anyone.
-
In England and Wales, an estimated 3.8 million people experienced domestic abuse in a single year (year ending March 2025).
-
Around 1 in 4 adults will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime.
-
Around 1 in 4 people with disabilities experience domestic abuse in their lifetime
-
Police receive a domestic abuse-related call every 30 seconds
-
78% of children are directly harmed as a result of a predator
-
16-24 age group had the highest DA incidents in England and Wales
While women are more commonly affected, men, non-binary people, and those in LGBTQ+ relationships can also experience abuse.
If you are experiencing domestic abuse, it’s important to know:
.png)
.png)
.png)