Domestic abuse

What is domestic abuse?

Domestic abuse is any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse that is perpetrated by one person against another, usually in an intimate relationship or family setting including a misuse of power and control.

Whatever form it takes, domestic abuse is rarely a one-off incident, and should instead be seen as a pattern of abuse and controlling behaviour through which the abuser seeks power over the victim.

If you need to leave your home, please contact the Safer Places Gateway on 03301 025811 who can help you to access refuge services in Hertfordshire.

Sometimes a family can join together in abusing a victim, or sometimes a victim can be subject to abuse by different family members. Sometimes an older child can take on the role of the abuser and physically hurt the parent who is the victim.

At least one in four women will experience domestic abuse during their lifetime regardless of ethnic origin or socio-economic background.

Domestic abuse is often hidden and should not be ignored, there are support services that can provide you useful information whether you are a 'victim', friend  or family member who is seeking more information or help.