Domestic Abuse: The Facts

Although domestic abuse is chronically under reported, research estimates that it:

• Accounts for 16% of all violent crime, and has more repeat victims than any other crime.

• Occurs right across society, regardless of age, gender, race, sexuality, wealth or geography.

• Will affect 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men in their lifetime.

• Claims the lives of two women each week and 30 men per year.

Victims suffer on many levels - health, housing, education - and lose the freedom to live their lives how they want, and without fear. Facts and figures such as these are shocking, and can only highlight the real need for Surrey Women's Aid and other organisations like us in the fight against domestic abuse.

What is Domestic Abuse?

Domestic Abuse is any form of physical, emotional, psychological or sexual abuse within the context of a close relationship, usually between partners or ex-partners. Domestic Abuse can happen anywhere, at any time in a relationship and across all social classes, age groups and ethnic or racial backgrounds.

It can involve:

PHYSICAL ABUSE: hitting, slapping, punching, kicking and bruising

SEXUAL ABUSE: rape and forced participation in sexual acts

EMOTIONAL ABUSE: ridicule, constant criticism, threats and manipulation

PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE: isolation, sleep deprivation, intimidation and controlling behaviour

If you are experiencing domestic violence and would like to talk about it, or need help with finding somewhere safe to stay, contact our 24-hour helpline on 01483 776822.