Facts about domestic abuse
The true extent of domestic abuse is not known. Many people do not report the abuse they experience because they are scared of what their abuser (the person carrying out the domestic violence) will do if they find out. Therefore, the facts here are only the best available estimates.
According to the British Crime Survey there were 293,000 incidents of domestic violence in 2008/2009. As domestic violence is likely to be under-reported, the true figure for incidents of domestic violence is probably much higher.
- In the past year, approximately 6% of women and 4% of men experienced an incident of domestic violence.
- Domestic violence accounts for 14% of all violent incidents.
- Around 1% of visits to accident and emergency departments are a result of domestic violence.
- Of the people who experience domestic violence, 21% have been subject to three or more incidents.
- One incident of domestic violence is reported to the police every minute.
- On average, two women are killed by a current or former male partner every week.
Is it domestic abuse?
If you are not sure if what you are experiencing is domestic abuse, consider some of the questions below.
- Do you feel afraid?
- Do you feel dominated or controlled?
- Do you feel isolated?
- Do you change your behaviour to avoid triggering an attack?
- Do you question your own opinion and judgement?
Domestic abuse often stems from the desire of the abuser (the person carrying out the domestic violence) to control you. If you no longer feel that you are in control of your own life, because of the actions of somebody else, this could be domestic violence.
Page last updated on July 23rd, 2012
