October – Domestic Abuse Awareness Month

The Office of National Statistics details that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men experience domestic abuse in their lifetime, and a domestic abuse related call is made to the police every 30 seconds in the UK. Sadly, many people suffer in silence due to fear, stigma or lack of support. 

October marks Domestic Abuse Awareness Month, and the purpose is to highlight and raise awareness and provide survivors with information and tools to seek advice and assistance.

What is Domestic Abuse?

It is a common misconception that domestic abuse is always physical, however, according to the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 in England and Wales, domestic abuse can take place in many forms such as physical, sexual, financial and emotional, as well as controlling, coercive or violent threatening behaviour. Domestic abuse not only relates to abuse within a relationship, but also scenarios where the individual and perpetrator are aged over 16 years and are personally connected to each other. The Act also recognises children that see, hear or live with domestic abuse as victims. 

Why awareness matters and how we can help

It is important to encourage conversations around the topic which may lead to survivors accessing the help and support they need to understand how to deal with the situation they are living in. 

Our solicitors are highly experienced in cases that involve domestic abuse, and we offer a supportive, non-judgemental environment for survivors to obtain legal advice and support. There are a number of applications that can be made to the Family Court that provide protection from an abuser dependant on the circumstances.

We understand how difficult it can be to make the first step, so if you, or a loved one are experiencing domestic abuse and would like to discuss with one of our solicitors, please do reach out to our understanding Family Team on 01869 222329. You can also read more about our services and watch some videos here.