Domestic Violence

In the past, society and the police use to view domestic violent incidences as a private matter which victims themselves must cope with. However, victims no longer have to suffer in silence. Domestic violence not only affects the victims, including children, but also society.

Definition of Domestic Violence
"Any form of physical, sexual or emotional abuse which takes place within the context of a close relationship. In most cases, the relationship will be between partners (married, cohabiting, or otherwise) or ex-partners".

"The term 'domestic violence' shall be understood to mean any violence between current or former partners in an intimate relationship, wherever and whenever it occurs. The violence may include physical, sexual, emotional or financial abuse".

Domestic Violence is a Crime
Domestic violence accounts for a quarter of all violent crime reported to the police and results in around 30 murders each year in London alone. Yet statistically, the incidence of reported cases could often be under-stated because victims often do not report it.

Statistics show that 1 in 4 women will have experienced domestic violence at some stage of her life. Domestic violence is not limited to any particular social group or class but occurs across the social spectrum. In most cases, the abuser is male and the victim female. However, there are reported cases of men having been attacked by women.

There is much work to be done in addressing this issue but the good news is that all the various agencies and government departments are now seeking to work together to effectively develop responses in order that victims of these crimes feel safe to come forward and seek help. No longer will they have to suffer in silence and the perpetrators will be held accountable for their crimes.

If you are a victim of Domestic Violence and need help now - Contact 2as1 Counsellors who are fully trained on 0700 2222 700