Definition
What is Domestic Abuse?
Domestic abuse is defined as any behaviour/pattern of behaviours of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence, or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, an intimate partner or family members, regardless of their gender or sexuality. We can talk about Domestic Abuse when person “A” and person B are personally connected.
Domestic abuse can include but is not limited to the following:
- Physical abuse
- Psychological and/or emotional abuse
- Sexual abuse or violence
- Financial or economic abuse, including Child Maintenance (Domestic Abuse Act 2021 amendment)
- Harassment and stalking
- Online or digital abuse
- Controlling and coercive behaviour (further expanded in Domestic Abuse Act 2021)
Domestic abuse also includes so-called ‘honour’-based violence such as female genital mutilation (FGM) and forced marriage.