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Domestic Abuse
The term ‘domestic abuse’ (sometimes called ‘domestic violence’ or ‘intimate partner violence’) is an all-encompassing term that refers to an incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening, degrading and violent behaviour. In the majority of cases, it is perpetrated by a partner or ex-partner, but also by a family member or carer. It is very common.
1 in 4
Women will experience domestic abuse in her lifetime
2
Women a week are killed by a current or former partner
20%
Of children in the UK have lived with an adult perpetrating domestic abuse
Who is Affected by Domestic Abuse?
Domestic abuse can happen to anyone — regardless of age, background, gender identity, sex, religion, sexual orientation or ethnicity. However, statistics show that women are more likely than men to experience multiple incidents of abuse, different types of domestic abuse and that most of these forms of abuse are carried out by men.
Self referrals
If you would like to refer yourself for therapy at HERSANA you can do this through our online self-referral form or you can phone us.
Why Does Domestic Abuse Happen?
Domestic abuse perpetrated by men against women is rooted in women’s unequal status in society and is part of the wider social problem of male violence against women and girls.
Researchers have different ideas about why people perpetrate domestic abuse.
But whatever the reason or motive, there is never any excuse or justification for domestic violence. Domestic abuse, stalking and harassment are serious crimes. They cannot be explained away.
If you have been through any kind of domestic abuse, please know that it was not your fault. It doesn’t matter how long ago it happened - you are in no way to blame.
Types of Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse is a crime. And it can happen to anyone — regardless of age, background, gender identity, sex, religion, sexual orientation or ethnicity. However, statistics show most domestic abuse is carried out by men and experienced by women.
Not all cases of domestic abuse involve violence, cause physical injury or leave visible marks. Domestic abuse can cause severe distress, emotional harm and injuries which can't be seen – all of which can take a long time to recover from. This is why we use the terms ‘violence’ and 'abuse' and treat disclosures and experiences just as seriously.
Domestic abuse can take many different forms, but one thing remains the same: it’s never the victim’s fault.
Click on the options below to learn about some of them.
This is not a complete list!
We are working all the time to bring you more information. So, just because something isn't mentioned on this page doesn't mean it's not a form of domestic violence and abuse.
Frequently asked questions
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