Abuse can take many forms, and it is always wrong. Abuse will almost always have an effect on mental and emotional wellbeing. If you or someone you know is the victim of abuse there is help available.

Domestic violence

Domestic violence is intentional and persistent abuse of one person by another, in the context of a present or past relationship. The abuse may be physical, sexual, emotional, financial or psychological.

Physical abuse may include slapping, hitting, punching, kicking, beating, choking or use of a weapon.

Emotional and psychological abuse may include constant criticism, intimidation, public humiliation, threats to the victim or to others, bullying, isolation or withholding basic human needs such as food or sleep.

Financial abuse may include unreasonably taking or withholding money, demanding explanations for how money has been spent, and use of money for control.

Sexual abuse may include degradation, sexual activity that hurts or injures, rape or forcing participation in or viewing of sexual activity.

While the majority of victims of domestic violence are women, men can also be affected by domestic violence. It can affect anyone regardless of status, race, culture or religion.

Victims of domestic violence live in a constant state of fear and anxiety. They may feel threatened, frightened, powerless and confused.

Children can be affected either directly or indirectly by domestic violence. This can affect education, friendships or home life, and may lead to mental health problems.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of domestic violence contact:

Women’s Aid

For a list of all local offices across NI and their contact numbers see here or call 028 9024 9041 to get contact details of the offices closest to you.

Sexual violence

Sexual violence is unwanted or non-consensual behaviour that is sometimes known as sexual harassment, sexual assault, incest or rape.

Sexual violence can include exposing genitals, touching, exposure to pornography, being forced to watch or engage in sexual activity. This behaviour can cause humiliation, pain, fear or intimidation.

Sexual violence can occur at any time, to anyone of any age.

The impact of sexual violence will vary from person to person but may generally affect the victim’s self-esteem, body image, sexuality, relationships, parenting and health.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual violence contact:

The NEXUS Institute
Tel: 028 9032 6803
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.nexusinstitute.org

Domestic and sexual abuse helpline
Helpline: 0808 802 1414
Website: https://dsahelpline.org/

Young people

Growing up for most people is a very exciting time. Most children and young people have loving and caring adults in their lives who help them develop into happy healthy adults.

However, for children and young people who suffer from abuse and or neglect the experience can be very different. 

Abuse can take many forms and can happen only once or many times. It can happen to both boys and girls and at any age.

Types of abuse include physical, sexual and emotional abuse. Neglect refers to situations where parents or guardians do not provide children or young people with the proper food, warmth, shelter, clothing, care and protection.

The affects of any such abuse or neglect can impact on both mental and physical health.

It is important to remember that any form of abuse or neglect is not acceptable and no-one has the right to hurt you or make you do anything that feels wrong. 

If you or someone you know has been abused in anyway the most important thing is to talk to someone about it. Don’t keep it to yourself.

Talk to someone you can trust about what is happening. There are people who can help you. For further information and sources of help and support contact:

NSPCC/ChildLine
Tel: 0800 1111
Website: www.nspcc.org.uk

Sexual violence and abuse are always wrong.