Home Community and neighbourhoodsDomestic AbuseSpotting the signs of Domestic Abuse – can you spot the red flags?
An split image of a man and woman looks directly at the camera. There is a red overlay. Text reads: Is This You?. "Hey, we're all heading out this weekend - are you in?" How many questions do you ask yourself before you make plans? Is this you? There is a list of examples of how coercive control could impact decision making: I'm home early, I could go but I'd have to make sure, I wonder if they will be upset if I want to go?

Spotting the signs of Domestic Abuse – can you spot the red flags?

by Guy Murphy

It is important that we all know and look out for the signs of domestic abuse, so that we can spot the red flags in our own relationships or that of our loved ones and friends.

Domestic abuse is an incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive (behaviour such as threats, humiliation and intimidation), threatening, or violent behaviour by a partner, ex-partner, family member or carer.

Are you, or someone you know, experiencing abuse? You are not alone and help and support is available.

Signs to look out for include, but aren’t limited to:

  • Being withdrawn
  • Having bruises
  • Having finances controlled by someone else
  • Not being allowed to leave the house
  • Having technology or social media use monitored by someone else

Where to go for help:

If you, your child, or someone you know is at immediate risk of harm, you should contact the police urgently, call 999. If you are not at immediate risk but are concerned, please contact one of the services listed below:

Knowsley Council Safer Communities Service (Specialist Domestic Abuse Service)
Tel: 0151 443 2610

Enquiries.safercommunities@knowsley.gov.uk

Knowsley Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub

Tel: 0151 443 2600

The First Step (Specialist Domestic Abuse Service)

Tel: 0151 548 3333

Website: www.thefirststep.org.uk

Savera UK

Helpline 0800 107 0726

www.saverauk.co.uk

Support is also available through:

  • National Domestic violence Helpline 0808 2000 247
  • Men’s Advice Line 0808 801 0327
  • LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline 0800 999 5428

Galop

Galop is the leading LGBT+ anti-violence and abuse charity, providing the National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline. They provide advice and support to individuals who have experienced hate crime, sexual violence, and domestic abuse and have an online referral form. They also offer a Trans Advocacy Service.

Website: www.galop.org.uk
Helpline: 0800 999 5428
Email: help@galop.org.uk