‘Domestic abuse’ and ‘domestic violence’ are terms that are often used to describe abuse from one partner towards another, or from one adult family member towards another. It can be difficult to know exactly what the terms mean and, for people outside of the relationship, it can be difficult to know whether or not you should be concerned. There are also many myths about domestic abuse that are widely believed.
When we speak to friends, family members, neighbours, and colleagues of women experiencing domestic abuse, they often tell us that they don’t know much about domestic abuse, and that it would be helpful if they understood more. Even if you do know quite a lot about domestic abuse, it can be useful to remind yourself. As you read the information, it may also help you to think about how to provide the best possible support.
Click on the buttons below to find out the answers to some of the questions that friends, family members, neighbours, and colleagues of survivors have asked us. The information may also be useful to people who are experiencing domestic abuse, though it has been written with informal supporters in mind.
