What is domestic abuse?

The Government's 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."

Domestic Abuse can encompass, but is not limited to, the following types of abuse:

• Psychological and Emotional
• Physical
• Sexual
• Financial
• Coercive Control

The definition includes honour-based abuse, forced marriage and female genital mutilation. The impact of domestic abuse can range from loss of self-esteem to loss of life.