Safeguarding

Domestic Abuse

Understanding the signs of domestic abuse and how to respond.

The government defines domestic abuse as an event or pattern of events of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between people aged 16 or over who are (or have been) intimate partners or family members.

Physical violence is just one type of abuse – domestic abuse can be any behaviour which is used to harm, punish or frighten you, or makes you feel bullied, controlled or intimidated. This includes mental, sexual, financial and emotional abuse and other harmful practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM), so called ‘honour’ based violence and forced marriage.

Friends, family, neighbours and community members can be a vital lifeline to those living with domestic abuse. If you are worried that someone you know may be a victim, you can help:

  • Contact your church safeguarding coordinator or the Synod Safeguarding Officer if you become concerned. Find their details on our Safeguarding Contacts page.
  • Call the Police if someone is in immediate danger.
  • Make training and advice accessible in your church to help identify and support those at risk.
  • Signpost to the support agencies listed on our Safeguarding Contacts page. Be aware of the need for discreteness so as not to place survivors in any further danger.
  • Promote that those fleeing violence are exempt from any order to “stay at home” and can leave to keep themselves safe.

For further information relating to child protection and safeguarding, please see the NSPCC website.