The North East Hampshire Domestic Abuse Forum has welcomed a change in domestic abuse laws, which criminalises controlling or coercive behaviour in an intimate or family relationship.
Bullies who control partners with ‘coercive and controlling behaviour’ such as threats or intimidation – even if they do not cause direct physical harm -now face prosecution after the change to the Serious Crime Bill, which came into force this month.
Karen Evans, of the North East Hampshire Domestic Abuse Forum, said: “This change to existing laws is being called a landmark because it really is an important change. For the first time, bullies who threaten, humiliate or intimidate their partner can be stopped. This includes  preventing a partner from seeing family or friends, keeping them short of money, spying on them or deciding aspects of their day-to-day life, such as when they eat, sleep or even go to the toilet.
“It is estimated that up to five million women and 2.5 million men will suffer abuse in their lives, at some point. This change in the law will help stop and prevent this ongoing psychological cruelty.”
The perpetrator must have a close personal relationship with the victim and it must be shown that the behaviour has had a serious effect on the victim. The offence carries a maximum sentence of 5 years imprisonment, a fine or both.

Perpetrators of domestic abuse in North Hampshire can contact the Respect Phoneline on 0808 802 404 or the Hampton Trust’s ADAPT programme on 02380 009898. The Respect Phoneline offers help and support to male and female perpetrators as well as those in same sex relationships. Relatives who are concerned about a perpetrator can also call for advice. The ADAPT programme is a 30 week course for those who wish to change their behaviour.

For more information, contact the North East Hampshire Domestic Abuse Forum on 02380 478547.