Community safety

Domestic abuse means any threats, violence, controlling or coercive behaviour that takes place between family members or people aged over 16 who are in a relationship with each other (or have been in the past). Family members are defined as mother, father, sister, brother and grandparents; whether directly related, in-laws or step family.

• domestic abuse can happen regardless of social group, class, age, race, disability or sexuality of the individuals involved
• domestic abuse can affect both men and women, and it can occur in any relationship - heterosexual, gay, lesbian, bisexual; young or old

It is a pattern of behaviour used by abusers designed to establish and maintain power and control over another person.

For more details on recognising and reporting on domestic abuse, and how the Council can help visit our dedicated Domestic Abuse section.