Domestic abuse can take many forms and affects people from all walks of life.
At Jump Up, we recognise that abuse isn’t always physical — it can also be emotional, psychological, sexual, or financial. Each form of abuse is serious and can have a lasting impact on survivors and their families.
Domestic abuse can include, but is not limited to:
- Psychological abuse – manipulation, intimidation, or humiliation
- Physical abuse – violence or physical harm
- Sexual abuse – sexual acts without consent or through coercion
- Financial abuse – controlling access to money or resources
- Emotional abuse – constant criticism, blame, or control through guilt
What Is Domestic Abuse?
Jump Up follows the Home Office definition of domestic abuse:
“Any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality.”
Controlling behaviour refers to acts designed to make someone dependent or isolated, such as limiting contact with friends or family, monitoring movements, or controlling finances.
Coercive behaviour includes patterns of intimidation, threats, humiliation, or assaults used to harm, punish, or frighten the victim.
While the term domestic violence is often used, we prefer domestic abuse — because not all abuse involves physical violence. Psychological or emotional abuse can be just as devastating and life-changing.
Our services at Jump Up support survivors of all forms of abuse — whether that’s ongoing coercion and control or extreme physical violence.
Who Experiences Domestic Abuse?
Research shows that domestic abuse is most commonly experienced by women and perpetrated by men. However, anyone can experience domestic abuse — regardless of gender, age, sexuality, religion, race, or background.
Abuse can also occur in same-sex and LGBTQ+ relationships, between family members, and within households where children may witness or experience harm.
Why Does Domestic Abuse Happen?
All forms of domestic abuse — psychological, emotional, sexual, financial, or physical — stem from an abuser’s need for power and control over another person.
This control often grows gradually, through manipulation and fear, until the victim’s independence and confidence are eroded.
Recognising the Signs of Abuse
Abuse can take many forms. Some common signs include:
- Destructive criticism or verbal abuse – name-calling, shouting, mocking, or threats
- Pressure tactics – withholding money, threatening to take children, or emotional blackmail
- Disrespect – constant put-downs, ignoring or belittling you, taking your belongings
- Breaking trust – lying, jealousy, or cheating
- Isolation – preventing contact with friends or family, monitoring calls or messages
- Harassment – following you, checking up on you, opening mail, public humiliation
- Threats – intimidation, breaking things, threatening harm to you or your loved ones
- Sexual violence – coercing or forcing sexual activity without consent
- Physical violence – hitting, kicking, strangling, pushing, or other physical harm
- Denial – minimising or blaming you for the abuse, promising it will never happen again
If you recognise any of these behaviours, you are not to blame, and you are not alone.
Is Domestic Abuse a Crime?
While “domestic abuse” is not a single offence under UK law, many of the behaviours involved are criminal, including:
- Assault
- Harassment or stalking
- Criminal damage
- Coercive or controlling behaviour
- Sexual assault or rape
- False imprisonment
Being harmed, threatened, or controlled by a partner or family member is just as serious as being attacked by a stranger — and often far more dangerous.
Every year in the UK:
- Around 950,000 children witness domestic abuse
- 1 in 4 women (aged 16–59) experience domestic abuse in their lifetime
- Up to half of women in abusive relationships experience sexual violence from their partner
We’re Here to Help
If you are experiencing or have experienced domestic abuse, you don’t have to face it alone.
Jump Up provides confidential support, guidance, and connections to safety for women, children, and families affected by abuse.
If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out — we’re here to listen, believe, and support you.