Domestic violence and abuse occurs when one person in an intimate personal or family relationship uses violence or abuse to maintain power and control over the other person. This includes, but is not limited to, the following types of abuse:

• Physical abuse is the most recognisable form of abuse. It can range from a slap or a shove to a black eye, cut lip, broken bone. In the most extreme cases it can result in death. Don’t underestimate what is happening to you. Over time, the violence usually gets worse.
• Sexual Abuse – your partner should not use force or threats to make you have sex. They should not make you perform sexual acts with which you are uncomfortable.
• Emotional Abuse can include mental torture, blackmail, threats to disown you or kill your children. It can also be controlling – meaning you are not allowed out of the home on your own, or to make contact with your family or friends or to have access to money or obtain a job of your choice
• Financial Abuse may include your partner taking your money; stopping you from working; placing all bills and debts in your name; or monitoring how you spend money and other financial resources.
• Psychological Abuse – leaving a violent partner may not end the abuse and it may get worse. Most stalkers are ex-partners. If your ex-partner is harassing you or others, this should be taken seriously.