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Partnership - Rhondda Cynon Taf, Merthyr Tydfil & Bridgend

Domestic Abuse

Domestic abuse should not happen to anybody.  Ever.  But it does - and when it does, there is help.

If you suspect a person is at immediate risk of harm call 999 and speak to the Police.


What is Domestic Abuse?

The cross UK government definition of domestic violence and abuse defines Domestic abuse as:
“Any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour,  violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are or have been intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality”.

There are many different forms of domestic abuse; these include but are not limited to:

  • coercively controlling behaviour emotional / psychological abuse
  • physical abuse
  • sexual abuse
  • financial abuse
  • harassment and stalking.

Domestic abuse may also include a range of behaviours that, when viewed as isolated incidents, do not seem much, If they involve a pattern of behaviour that result in you feeling fear, alarm or distress, it is abuse.

Who can be affected by domestic abuse?

Domestic abuse can happen to anyone regardless of; age, gender, nationality, ethnicity or ability and is regardless of Income, class or status, immigration status, sexual orientation or heath issues (including pregnancy).

Domestic abuse can happen between people who:
• are/have been in an intimate relationship together
• are/have lived together
• have children together
• are of close family relations.

Domestic abuse often continues once the relationship is over.

If you are experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence, have experienced domestic abuse or sexual violence, or are worried about a friend or relative who is experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence you can find local support at:

Getting help to recover from abuse is possible at any stage of life

Sometimes it can take us a while to understand that we have been abused. Sometimes we’re just not ready to talk about it. It can be hardto know where to go for help.It’s normal to be worried about who to talk to and what will happen.But you’re not alone. There is support out there to help you. Reach out when you’re ready - it’s never too late. There are services for adults as well as young people and children, and they will help you nomatter when the abuse happened. 

Find out more here.

Have you experienced or witnessed domestic violence? 

If you have experienced domestic abuse or sexual abuse and have been asked to give evidence at a trial, or need to attend a family court hearing, you can apply to give your evidence via any of the 15 video link facilities across Wales. These facilities are in safe and secure locations away from court.

For more information, select this link, view this short video or contact the Live Free Fear helpline on 0808 80 10 800

 

The Live Fear Free helpline is a confidential, free phone support and information service for anyone experiencing domestic or sexual abuse or wanting more information on available support service and is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Contact the Live Fear Free Helpline on Freephone 0808 80 10 800

You can also visit the Live Fear Free website for further information.