Care and support

What is domestic violence?

If you or someone you know are in immediate danger from an abuser dial 999.

To speak in confidence to a trained adviser ring the free Hertfordshire Domestic Violence/Abuse Line on 08 088 088 088 (Monday to Friday 10am - 8pm). This number will not show up on your telephone bill.

Domestic violence is a pattern of behaviour characterised by the use of control and the misuse of power by one person over another within an intimate relationship, regardless of gender or sexuality.

Domestic violence almost always re-occurs and usually gets worse over time. Domestic violence is against the law.

Alcohol, drug misuse and inappropriate use of prescribed medication are often added issues for the victim or abuser. Child abuse is also common in a family where domestic violence is an issue.

The abuse can take many forms including:

• Emotional abuse: treating you like a servant, saying that you're not good enough.
• Social isolation: checking who you see and talk to.
• Sexual abuse: forcing you to have sex against your will.
• Financial abuse: making you account for what you spend.
• Coercion/threats: threatening you to make you do things.
• Using the children: making you feel guilty about the children.
• Intimidation: smashing things
• Physical abuse: punching, hitting, etc.
• And it will commonly be a combination of some or all of these.

If you are concerned in any way about your intimate relationship, whether you live together, have recently parted, or are considering parting, it is important to know that you are not alone and that help is available.