The Government definition of domestic violence and abuse is:

‘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. This can encompass, but is not limited to, the following types of abuse:

– Psychological
– Physical
– Sexual
– Financial
– Emotional

‘Controlling behaviour is: a range of acts designed to make a person subordinate and/or dependent by isolating them from sources of support, exploiting their resources and capacities for personal gain, depriving them of the means needed for independence, resistance and escape and regulating their everyday behaviour.

Coercive behaviour is: an act or a pattern of acts of assault, threats, humiliation and intimidation or other abuse that is used to harm, punish, or frighten their victim.’

The Government definition, which is not a legal definition, includes so called ‘honour’ based violence, female genital mutilation (FGM) and forced marriage, and is clear that victims are not confined to one gender or ethnic group.

The Facts

Safer North Hampshire takes instances of domestic abuse very seriously and works in partnership with the North East Hants Domestic Abuse Forum and local agencies in order to improve the safety and wellbeing of all those affected by domestic abuse across North Hampshire.

At some point in their lives, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men will suffer domestic violence.
Domestic violence has more repeat victims than any other offence.

There is stigma attached to being a victim of domestic violence, especially in affluent areas.

Through feelings of fear and shame, a woman is attacked an average of 35 times before seeking help.

Men can be victims too. The perpetrator is not always a man.

Armed Forces

Members of the Armed Forces and their families who are currently serving can access a specialist website with advice and information by visiting https://www.gov.uk/mod/domestic-abuse-support-for-the-armed-forces.

Information for veterans and their families can be found at https://www.domesticabusearmedforces.co.uk.