Recognising Domestic Abuse
Everyone has the right to live free from fear. Domestic abuse has no place in our society.
At Connect, we work closely with other agencies to help people seek the support they need to protect themselves from abuse of any kind, ranging from coercive, controlling and threatening behaviour to threats and physical assault, or even financial abuse.
Domestic abuse can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or background and can take place between any people, not just those in relationships.
Domestic Abuse may happen in one or more different ways. The most common types are:
This might include:
- Hitting
- Kicking
- Biting
- Pushing
This might include:
- Touching when you say no.
- Making you be intimate.
- Having sex when you don’t want to.
This might include:
- Taking away or controlling your money.
- Preventing you from working.
- Preventing you from buying essential items such as food, heating, clothing.
This might include:
- Controlling behaviours such as checking your phone or stopping you from seeing friends and family or making your own choices.
- Coercive behaviours like making you do what you’re told by bullying you, hurting you or making you feel bad about yourself.
- Harassment and stalking - repeated unwanted behaviour which make you feel scared or threatened, like being followed and spied on or unwanted gifts, texts or calls. Stalking is like harassment but is more aggressive and obsessive. It’s important to know that stalking is a Criminal Offence.
You should report any incidents of domestic abuse to the police by calling 101 or online.
In an emergency, when there is a crime in progress or a danger to life, always dial 999. If you can’t speak, make a silent call.
If you are worried about how your behaviour affects others contact Respect (national helpline) on 0808 8024040 or visit respect.org.uk.
For further information, advice or help contact:
- Kirklees Pennine Domestic Abuse Partnership: 0800 052 7222 (24 hour)
- Leeds Domestic Violence Service: 0113 2460401 (24 hour)
- Wakefield Domestic Abuse Service: 0800 915 1561
- Calderdale Staying Safe Service: 01422 323339
- Staying Put (Bradford): 0808 2800 999
- Men’s Advice Line: 0808 8010 327
- Galop (LGBT+ specialist helpline): 0800 9995 428
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247 (24 hour)
Connect also offers a refuge service, North Kirklees Women’s Refuge, designed for women and children who need somewhere to go after leaving a violent or abusive household. Security and safety are especially important in these homes. Our specialist staff provide the support needed to help residents to rebuild their lives and develop skills to live safely and independently.
If you are experiencing abuse or violence in your home, please ask for help from one of the agencies mentioned or contact us on 01924 465238.
