Breaking the Silence: Understanding and Escaping Domestic Violence Towards Women

Posted by: philippa - Posted on:

Domestic violence is a devastating reality for many women across the UK. It can happen to anyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstance. Abuse can be physical, emotional, financial, or psychological—and it often happens behind closed doors, making it difficult for victims to reach out for help.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, you are not alone. Support is available, and there is a way out.

🚨 What Is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence, also known as domestic abuse, is any incident of controlling, coercive, threatening, degrading, or violent behaviour between people in a relationship. It can involve:

  • Physical abuse – hitting, slapping, pushing
  • Emotional abuse – belittling, isolating, threatening
  • Sexual abuse – forcing unwanted sexual activity
  • Financial abuse – controlling money or access to resources
  • Coercive control – persistent patterns of intimidation or isolation

Domestic abuse is a criminal offence in the UK.

📊 Shocking Statistics

  • 1 in 4 women will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime.
  • On average, two women are killed each week by a current or former partner in England and Wales.
  • Victims often live with abuse for years before seeking help.

🛑 Signs You Might Be in an Abusive Relationship

  • Your partner constantly criticises or belittles you.
  • They control where you go, who you see, or your access to money.
  • They make you feel scared, unsafe, or trapped.
  • They physically hurt you or threaten to harm you or your children.
  • They isolate you from friends, family, or support networks.

If any of these sound familiar, please know that you deserve to feel safe and respected.

🆘 Where to Get Help

National Helplines

Local Services in Greater Manchester

Places of Refuge

Women’s refuges offer a safe place to stay if you need to leave your home quickly. You can access a refuge through:

  • National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 📞 0808 2000 247
  • Local councils and social workers
  • Police protection services (call 999 in an emergency)

📢 How You Can Help

  • Listen without judgment if someone confides in you.
  • Share resources and offer practical support.
  • Challenge harmful attitudes that excuse or minimise abuse.
  • Donate to organisations like Refuge and Women’s Aid to support ongoing services.

✨ You Are Not Alone

Leaving an abusive relationship can feel overwhelming—but there is a network of people ready to support you. Whether it’s a trusted friend, a healthcare professional, or a national helpline, help is available right now.

📞 Need Immediate Help?

If you are in immediate danger, call 999.

If speaking isn’t safe, press 55 after dialling 999 to signal you need silent help.

📌 Additional Resources:

  • Women’s Aid Survivor’s Handbook
  • Refuge – How to Cover Your Tracks Online
  • Bright Sky App – Discreet Domestic Abuse Support

💬 Talk to Us

If you’re registered with The Uplands Medical Practice, our team can provide confidential advice and referrals to local services.
📞 Call us on 0161 766 8221 or
🌐 Contact us online here.