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RELATIONSHIPS Abuse

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WHAT IS AN ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIP • WHERE CAN A WOMAN SEEK HELP FROM THE CONFINES OF A VIOLENT RELATIONSHIP? • ABUSIVE AND VIOLENT MARRIAGE • • •

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ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIPS

WHAT IS AN ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIP?

Domestic Violence is where a partner uses their power, either mental or physical, to maintain control within the relationship

You could be in an abusive relationship if:

You feel like you always have to walk on eggshells
You are afraid of your partners temper
You avoid doing what you want in order to keep the peace
You avoid your family and friends in order to avoid conflict with your partner
You are forced into sexual acts against your will
You are slapped, kicked, punched or subjected to other physical abuse
You are subjected to mental abuse
Every confrontation is always your fault

You are not alone, many women are abused by their husbands or partners
No-one deserves to be subjected to physical or emotional abuse

What can you do?

Talk to someone who will support you
A friend or relation that you can trust
A refuge worker
A crisis helpline
In an emergency dial 999 for the police

Abuse occurs in both heterosexual and homosexual relationships

WHERE CAN A WOMAN SEEK HELP FROM THE CONFINES OF A VIOLENT RELATIONSHIP?

Today there are many options open for someone wishing to escape from a violent situation, even as a temporary arrangement, and many different agencies are available to provide help for women who are victims of domestic violence.
Statistics suggest that women experience on average between 25 and 35 assaults before seeking help and contact between 5 and 12 agencies before they get an appropriate and supportive response.
The police are always available as a first line of contact 24 hours a day, and most forces now have a team of specialized officers in a Domestic Violence Unit, trained to deal sympathetically with domestic issues and their victims. If required, the police can put women in touch with Women's Aid hostels and facilities. The Home Office has published Domestic Violence booklets, which are available in such places as local doctors' surgeries and in some post offices. Cards are also often left in these places showing the phone numbers of local refuges. The exact location of these is not publicized anywhere for obvious reasons. The police, social services and the Samaritans will always help with referrals to these refuges, where women are provided with objective advice about what they wish to do. They are not pressurized to stay if they wish to return to the relationship, but equally are given the opportunity for advice from solicitors and social services about being re-housed and obtaining financial assistance, if required.
The Women's' Aid Domestic Violence Help line no. is 0845 7023468.
Various Acts in recent years have given the police increased powers of enforcement, and have made it much simpler for the police to intervene in situations of domestic violence.
Women can apply for non-molestation orders or occupation orders without divorce proceedings being involved under The Domestic Violence and Matrimonial Proceedings Act. This allows the perpetrator of the violence to be prosecuted for unlawful wounding, assault, grievous bodily harm, rape, or even manslaughter or murder.
The Telecommunications Act 1984 prohibits the sending of grossly offensive, indecent, obscene or menacing communications, and the Malicious Communications Act 1988 prohibits the sending of indecent, or grossly offensive letters which are intended to cause distress or anxiety.
Name University Law Graduate, Suffolk Date 20th December, 2000

ABUSIVE AND VIOLENT MARRIAGE

I have been in an abusive and violent marriage for 13 years. I desperately need help in coping with my husbands violent and abusive behaviour. I have three young children and I am concerned that I cannot provide for them if I leave. I am slowly sinking with despair - my part time jobs are my lifeline. My husband will not admit to his problems. Please help me!!
Name Sarah P Date 19th Febrary 2003