Domestic abuse is a pattern of behaviour that is used by someone to control or obtain power over their partner. It can happen at any point in a relationship, including after you’ve split up.
Psychological/emotional abuse:
Includes name-calling, threats and manipulation, blaming you for the abuse or ‘gas-lighting’ you.
Economic abuse:
Controlling your access to money or resources. They might take your wages, stop you working, or put you in debt without your knowledge or consent
Sexual abuse:
Doesn’t have to be physical. They might manipulate, deceive or coerce you into doing things you don’t want to do.
Harmful sexual behaviour (HSB) is developmentally inappropriate sexual behaviour displayed by children and young people which is harmful or abusive.
Peer-on-peer sexual abuse is a form of HSB where sexual abuse takes place between children of a similar age or stage of development. Child-on-child sexual abuse is a form of HSB that takes place between children of any age or stage of development.
Problematic sexual behaviour (PSB) is developmentally inappropriate or socially unexpected sexualised behaviour which doesn’t have an overt element of victimisation or abuse.
If a child is displaying problematic or harmful sexual behaviour (PSB or HSB), it can be difficult to know how to respond so that you are balancing the needs of everyone involved.
You need to act appropriately to support and protect any children who have displayed PSB or HSB and those who have been impacted by the behaviour.
For more resources and information on how to manage incidents visit: https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/child-abuse-and-neglect/harmful-sexual-behaviour .
Young people who have experienced abuse at school and parents and teachers who are concerned about sexual abuse in education settings can call 0800 136 663 or email help@nspcc.org.uk.
Coercive control:
When an abuser uses a pattern of behaviour over time to exert power and control. It is a criminal offence.
Physical abuse:
Not only hitting. They might restrain you or throw objects. They might pinch or shove you and claim it’s a ‘joke’.
Tech abuse:
They might send abusive texts, demand access to your devices, track you with spyware, or share images of you online.
Statistics show most domestic abuse is carried out by men and experienced by women, but it can impact anyone, regardless of gender, race, age, or sexual orientation. It can occur within a range of relationships including couples who are married, living together or dating. Services in Bolton services are inclusive and available to all victims, including male victims and those within the LGBTQI+ community.
Sadly, the holiday periods sometimes bring with them added pressures on families which result in them facing challenges. In order to support victims of domestic abuse, we are involved in ‘Operation Encompass’ – the purpose of which is to safeguard and support children and young people who have been affected by domestic abuse incidents. This involves working in partnership with the police and social services. Should you experience issues related to domestic violence, these can be reported.
