Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is the deliberate misuse of power and control by one partner over another. The violence and abuse may be emotional, physical, sexual or financial and can include:
- Hitting, spitting, pushing, making threats, hurting children, using weapons, forced drug and alcohol use
- Rape, forced sex acts, degrading treatment, sexual name-calling, enforced prostitution and imposition of a dress code
- Derogatory language designed to humiliate, stalking, blaming and destroying personal belongings
- Building up debt in another's name, taking money, limiting access to money and work, and threats to report to the Benefits Agency or other authorities
- Cutting someone off from their family, friends and community
- Behaving unacceptably so that people stop visiting
If you are experiencing this sort of violence it is never your fault. Nobody has the right to abuse you in this way - the problem lies with the abuser.
People who suffer this kind of abuse often stay in the situation, for many different reasons. Perhaps you fear leaving as you worry your abuser will try and stop you and become even more violent. Perhaps you rely on your abuser for financial support or worry about losing access to your children. You may also enjoy the good times and keep hoping it won't happen again.
You do not have to suffer in silence. Victim Support Southwark can help by listening to you and allowing you to explore the choices that are open to you.
And if you decide at any stage that you do want to leave, we can give you the information and advice that you need. We will prioritise your safety and confidentiality if you choose to talk to us.
The decision to take action against your abuser may be a difficult one. But if you do decide, at any time, that you want to report the abuse to the Police, we can help.
We are here to support you whatever you want to do. Contact us today.
Victim Support Southwark also provides a Sanctuary Scheme for victims of domestic violence, allowing them to remain safely in their own homes.