Today’s theme is Domestic Abuse
What is Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse refers to situations where a person is subjected to 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. Each year nearly 2 million people in the UK suffer some form of domestic abuse – 1.3 million female victims (8.2% of the population) and 600,000 male victims (4%) and lockdown measures during Covid-19 have increased the risk for people in abusive relationships. Domestic abuse can include, but is not limited to, the following:
Coercive Control and ‘gaslighting’
Psychological and/or emotional abuse
Physical or sexual abuse
Financial or economic abuse
Harassment or stalking
Online or digital abuse
How to spot the signs of Domestic Abuse
You may become concerned that someone is being abused in a number of ways:
the person may tell you
the person may say something that worries you
you may see something – an incident or an injury or other sign
Portsmouth City Council offers free counselling and support for Portsmouth residents More local organisations which may offer help and advice: Housing Needs & Advice 023 9283 4989 Inscape (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) 023 9265 5077 or 23 9229 8950 Men’s Aid free practical advice and support to men who have been abused or are in an abusive relationship. Someone to talk to in the strictest of confidence. Helpful, constructive advice, plus other useful contacts specific to you – 0871 223 9986 Naval Personal & Family Service 023 9272 2712 Police Domestic Abuse co-ordinators call 101 and ask for the Eastern Safeguarding Team Portsmouth & Havant Victim Support 023 9265 3111 Portsmouth Women’s Refuge 023 9229 1034 Social Services 023 9283 9111 Women’s Aid free practical advice and support for women who have experienced or are experiencing domestic abuse. Someone to speak to in the strictest of confidence, instructive and helpful information and contacts specific to you. Links with Portsmouth Women’s Refuge Service – 0808 2000 247