Domestic abuse can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, background, culture or relationship status.
October is Domestic Abuse Awareness Month. This is an opportunity to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions and remind that support is available.
As part of raising awareness within the University community, we invite you to join us on Wednesday 27th October from 12:00 till 2:00pm.
Domestic abuse is not always physical. It can include emotional, psychological, sexual, financial or controlling behaviour, as well as intimidation, isolation, monitoring or threats.
Know the signs
You may be experiencing domestic abuse if someone:
- Controls who you see, where you go or what you do
- Makes you feel afraid, worthless or responsible for their behaviour
- Controls your money or access to finances
- Constantly checks your phone, messages or social media
- Pressures or forces you into sexual activity
- Threatens, intimidates or physically hurts you
- Prevents you from accessing support, education or work
- Bombarding you with messages and phone calls. Behaviours may not seem harmful and may feel great in the moment, but it's a sign to be aware of too.
Abuse is never your fault, and you do not have to deal with it alone.
Support is available
If something in a relationship or at home doesn’t feel right, you can access support through the University.
You do not need to be ready to leave a relationship or report what has happened to ask for help. You can seek support simply because you are worried or unsure.
If you are concerned about yourself or someone else, support is available through Report and Support.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999.