​Following White Ribbon Day on Friday 25 November, we are continuing to raise awareness of the support available to anyone who may be experiencing domestic abuse.

Here we share information about what domestic abuse is, giving you the knowledge to understand the forms it can come in. Our specialist Domestic Abuse Team remind us that domestic abuse is not just violence it is:

Any incident of controlling, coercive, 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.

The abuse can include, but is not limited to:

1. Coercive Control (a pattern of intimidation, degradation, isolation and control with the use or threat of physical or sexual violence).
2. Psychological and/or emotional abuse.
3. Physical or sexual abuse.
4. Financial or economic abuse.
5. Harassment and stalking.
6. Online or digital abuse.

This definition, which is not a legal definition, includes so called "honour" based violence, female genital mutilation and forced marriage. You can find out more about this kind of abuse on the Savera UK website – www.saverauk.co.uk

Read our article here for further information about what coercive and controlling behaviour is as well as advice of where to find help.
And please note all articles about Domestic Abuse on Knowsley News have a 'Quick Exit' button if you need to quickly leave the webpage.