Domestic and sexual abuse
The government's definition of domestic violence is as follows: ‘Any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse'.
Domestic Violence is usually about one person’s desire to control their partner, even if they are not aware of this themselves.
There are different forms of abuse, but if your relationship leaves you feeling scared, intimidated or controlled, it's possible you're in an abusive relationship. Sadly if it has happened once, it is likely to happen again.
The government's definition of domestic violence is as follows:
‘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 include, but is not limited to, the following types of abuse:
- physical abuse
- sexual abuse
- emotional abuse
- financial abuse
- psychological abuse
Controlling behaviour is a range of acts designed to make a person subordinate 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
- 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.*
*This definition includes so-called 'honour' based violence, female genital mutilation (FGM) and forced marriage.
Get help
Find out more about how to get help for yourself or support someone you know. Even if it has been happening for years it is never too late to seek help.
Victims can report domestic abuse online rather than needing to make a phone call.
The form will only be for use in non-emergency situations. If it is an emergency or a crime is in progress, then 999 should be called.
The form is also only for use by the person who is the victim of the abuse, it is not to be used for third party reporting. Anyone wanting to report concerns for another person can do so here.
If you, or someone you know, is in immediate danger of abuse or harm please call 999.
For support in non-emergencies you can contact West Yorkshire Police on 101, and access advice and support from Staying Put
If you are a child or young person reading this and you are living with violence at home please keep reading - you are not alone.
If you are being abused there are three simple steps you can take, read more here
No one deserves to be abused. Find out how to help here
Practical tips for employers to recognise when an employee may be affected by domestic abuse, click here
Click here for more information
For information about the global movement encouraging men to play their part in eliminating male violence against women, click here
Click here for information if you are concerned about your behaviour towards your partner
