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About
Domestic abuse is abusive behaviour between those aged over 16 years who are or were in a close relationship, like partners or family members, even if they have separated. This is regardless of age, gender, religion, ethnicity, class, sexual orientation, marital status or background.
The statutory definition
The definition of domestic abuse is in two parts. The first part is the relationship between the abuser and the abused. The second part explains what kinds of actions are considered abuse.
The criteria governing the relationship between the abuser and the abused:
- both the person who is carrying out the behaviour and the person to whom the behaviour is directed towards must be aged 16 or over
- both persons must be “personally connected” (including ex-partners and family members)
- Abusive behaviour directed at a person under 16 would be dealt with as child abuse rather than domestic abuse
Behaviour is to be regarded as ‘abusive’ if it any of the following:
- physical or sexual abuse
- violent or threatening behaviour
- controlling or coercive behaviour, even after separation
- economic abuse – any behaviour that has a substantial adverse effect on acquiring, using or maintaining money or other property, or obtaining goods or services
- psychological, emotional or other abuse
The Domestic Abuse Act
On 29 April 2021, the Domestic Abuse Act became law. The Act creates, for the first time, a legal definition of domestic abuse. This is to make sure that domestic abuse is properly understood, considered unacceptable and actively challenged across statutory agencies and in public attitudes.
- The Act recognises a child who sees or hears or experiences domestic, the effects of the abuse and treats them as victims of domestic abuse where they are related to either the abuser or the abused.
- The Act includes a new statutory duty on local authorities to deliver accommodation-based support to victims of domestic abuse.
- The Act introduced other measures to protect and support victims. This included a new Domestic Abuse Protection Notice and Order. It also improved the criminal justice response. For example, by preventing the cross-examination of victims in family court proceedings by the abuser.
- The Act also creates the National Domestic Abuse Commissioner role. This is an ‘independent voice’ that speaks on behalf of victims and survivors. Using the Act’s statutory powers, the Domestic Abuse Commissioner will raise public awareness and hold both agencies and the Government to account in tackling domestic abuse.
For more information, visit the Domestic Abuse Act – GOV.UK.
Somerset Domestic Abuse Service
The Somerset Domestic Abuse website provides information, help and support for anyone affected by domestic abuse in Somerset, including how to get in touch with the local service.
The Somerset Domestic Abuse Service is open to anyone who needs specialist support. This can include all types of relationships, regardless of race, ethnic or religious group, disability, sexuality, lifestyle, nationality or age.
The service provides specialist advice, including financial, legal and accommodation support. They can also provide guidance and support with safety planning. It is important to remember that couples counselling is not recommended and could be dangerous. Instead, it is always best to speak to a specialist service, such as Somerset Domestic Abuse Service or Victim Support.
I need help now
If you want to know what support is available, click on this link to find out how the Somerset Domestic Abuse Service can support you I need help now
You can phone on 0800 69 49 999 from 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week, select the option for Somerset. More ways to get in touch are on the Somerset Domestic Abuse Service contact us page.
The helpline is a single point of contact for confidential advice and support to any person concerned about domestic abuse in the Somerset area.
Supporting someone
If you are worried that someone is being abused or they have confided in you about their situation, click on this link to find out about the support that is available Supporting someone
Support for those causing harm
For those who want to change their harmful behaviour, click on this link to find out more information on the support available Information for those causing harm