Domestic abuse includes patterns of controlling or coercive behaviour
Domestic abuse is a pervasive issue affecting people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. Domestic abuse is a pattern of behaviour by a partner or ex-partner, family member, or carer that causes physical, sexual, emotional, economic or financial harm. It can take many forms, including physical violence, sexual abuse, financial exploitation, emotional abuse, and coercive control. Coercive control is a form of domestic abuse that involves controlling and manipulative behaviour that strips victims of their autonomy and leads to severe psychological harm. Domestic abuse is a significant public health issue, and it leads to long-lasting trauma and even death.
Domestic abuse-related suicide is a critical issue in the UK, with recent statistics highlighting the prevalence of this issue. In 2019, it was reported that domestic abuse-related suicides rose by 16% in the UK. Domestic abuse-related suicide occurs when someone takes their own life as a direct result of domestic abuse. This can occur due to the physical, sexual, or emotional harm inflicted on the individual, as well as the ongoing trauma and distress associated with domestic abuse. This article aims to explore the prevalence of domestic abuse and coercive control-related suicide in the UK, the issues with conducting domestic homicide reviews, and the bias against domestic abuse survivors. Finally, the article will conclude with advice for those experiencing domestic abuse.
Prevalence of Domestic Abuse in the UK
Domestic abuse is a pervasive issue in the UK, affecting millions of people each year. According to the Office for National Statistics, an estimated 2.3 million adults experienced domestic abuse in the year ending March 2020. Women are more likely than men to experience domestic abuse, with an estimated 1.6 million women experiencing domestic abuse compared to 757,000 men. However, it is essential to note that anyone can experience domestic abuse, regardless of gender, sexuality, or ethnicity.
Domestic abuse is often underreported, with many victims feeling ashamed, embarrassed, or afraid to come forward. In 2020, it was estimated that only around one in five domestic abuse incidents were reported to the police. This underreporting has severe consequences, as victims may not receive the support and protection they need.
Prevalence of Coercive Control in the UK
Coercive control is a form of domestic abuse that involves controlling and manipulative behaviour that strips victims of their autonomy and breaks them down. Coercive control is a huge issue in the UK, affecting millions of people each year. According to the Office for National Statistics, an estimated 2.3 million adults experienced domestic abuse in the year ending March 2020. Of these, an estimated 1.6 million experienced psychological abuse, which includes coercive control.
Coercive control can have long-lasting effects on victims/survivors, causing severe trauma, anxiety, and depression. It can also make it difficult for victims to leave abusive relationships, as they feel trapped and powerless.
Domestic Abuse-Related Suicide in the UK
Domestic abuse-related suicide is a critical issue in the UK, with recent statistics highlighting the prevalence of this issue. In 2019, it was reported that domestic abuse-related suicides rose by 16% in the UK. This increase is a huge cause for concern, as it suggests that domestic abuse-related suicide is becoming more and more common.
Domestic abuse-related suicide can occur due to the physical, sexual, or emotional harm inflicted on the individual, as well as the ongoing trauma and distress associated with domestic abuse. Victims may feel trapped and powerless, with no way out of their situation. This can lead to feelings of hopelessness, despair, and suicidal ideation.
Conducting Domestic Homicide Reviews
Domestic homicide reviews are conducted in cases where a person is killed by a partner or ex-partner, family member, or carer. The reviews aim to understand the circumstances surrounding the homicide and identify ways to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. However, there are several issues with conducting domestic homicide reviews.
One of the main issues is that victims of domestic abuse may not report their abuse or may not be taken seriously when they do. This can make it difficult to identify cases of domestic abuse that may lead to homicide. Additionally, there may be a lack of understanding among professionals about the dynamics of domestic abuse, which can lead to a failure to recognise the signs of abuse.
Another issue is that domestic abuse-related homicides often involve multiple agencies, including the police, social services, and healthcare professionals. This can make it difficult to coordinate a review, as there may be a lack of communication between agencies. Additionally, agencies may be reluctant to share information due to concerns about confidentiality and data protection.
Bias Against Domestic Abuse Survivors
There is often bias against domestic abuse survivors, with many people blaming the victim/survivor for the abuse they have experienced. This can be particularly damaging for survivors, who may already feel ashamed, embarrassed, or afraid to come forward. This bias can lead to a lack of support for survivors and can make it difficult for them to access the help and protection they need.
Domestic abuse survivors may also face difficulty if they cannot leave their abusive partner. Leaving an abusive relationship can be difficult, particularly if the victim has children or financial dependency on their partner. Additionally, leaving an abusive relationship can increase the risk of harm to the victim, as the abuser may become more violent or controlling.
Conclusion and Advice for Domestic Abuse Survivors
Take Action to Prevent Domestic Abuse-Related Suicides
Domestic abuse-related suicide is a critical issue, and we all have a role to play in preventing these tragic deaths. By working together through a multi-agency approach, we can identify and support victims, challenge bias and stigma, and ensure the language we use is empowering and person-centred.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, help is available. You are not alone, and support is just a call or click away.
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline: Call 0808 2000 247 (available 24/7) or visit www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk for live chat and resources.
- Women’s Aid: Access information, support, and a secure live chat at www.womensaid.org.uk.
- Men’s Advice Line: Call 0808 801 0327 or visit www.mensadviceline.org.uk for confidential advice and support for male victims.
Taking the first step to seek help can feel overwhelming, but people deserve to live a life free from abuse and coercion. Together, we can make a difference.
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