Do You Feel Safe?

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Image representing the cycle of abuse

The cycle of abuse is an attachment that is built by repeating physical or emotional trauma with positive reinforcement which creates a trauma bond making the cycle difficult to break. 

Abuse comes in many forms including...

This page is here to help point you in the right direction of freedom. 

 

 

Emma is a mother to three children...

 

This video from Police Scotland tells Emma's story. Emma explains how easy it can be to fall into the abuse cycle. She experienced physical, emotional, psychological, sexual and financial abuse for four years but with the right support, Emma was able to leave the relationship and rebuild herself and her life. 

 

Domestic abuse is everybody's business..

 

The enemy doesn't stand a chance when the victim decides they are going to survive. 

 

 

 

Physical and Emotional Abuse

  • Is your Partner controlling your finances?
  • Do you feel they are isolating you from friends?
  • Do they lash out when they are angry at objects around you or you?
  • Do they use intimidating behaviour to get what they want?
  • Do you alter your behaviour to please them or keep the peace?

Remember you are not alone and there are shelters and services that can help you. 

 

Love bombing is usually one of the first signs of abuse during relationships or what one may call a red flag. It can also be used after an incident of abuse whether this be physical or emotional as a way of reconciliation. For further information on this, please visit http://https://www.solacewomensaid.org/love-bombing-affection-today-abuse-tomorrow

 

 

man in gold wedding band

Elderly Neglect

Neglect can include not being provided with enough food or the right amount of nutrition. It can mean that the elderly person in question is not being taken care of properly. Left unclean, in wet clothes or not ensuring their medical concerns are dealt with appropriately. 
When leaving a relative in care, having concerns about how they will be treated are natural. However, if you or someone you know is experiencing neglect then click this help guide for further information and support.
 

 

Child Abuse

Child abuse is when a child is intentionally harmed by an adult or another child. This could be...

If you notice a child is withdrawn, unusually aggressive, seems anxious, has new bruising or marks or the child knows things inappropriate for their age range then please contact NSPCC or call on 0808 800 5000 

Report child abuse

a boy crying tears for his loss

 

person sitting front of laptop

Bullying/Cyberbullying

If someone makes you feel frightened, in person or online, make sure you talk to an adult that you feel you can trust. This can be any close family friend, relative or perhaps a teacher. If you would prefer to talk confidentially, then you can contact on Childline (0800 1111)  
If an individual has acted in a way that has made you feel uncomfortable, sexually or inappropriately then you can speak directly to Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP).  
If someone you know is being affected by any of the above or you yourself feel like you are not safe then you are able to call Victim support on 0808 16 89 111.

 

 

Additional Resources

 

SAFE SPACES

Ask For ANI - Domestic Abuse Codeword Scheme | Boots, United Kingdom,  United Kingdom | If you are a victim of #DomesticAbuse, you can access  support safely, discreetly and confidentially at locations

Alternatively, find your nearest Safe Space at your local pharmacy and ask for ani (Action Needed Immediately) Ask for ani is a scheme that helps victims of abuse to ask for immediate help in the pharmacies that participate in this. For more information on this, please visit the UK Says No More website.

 

 

Always dial 999 in an emergency or call the National Domestic Violence Helpline. For further information, and general domestic violence/abuse awareness, please visit: West Sussex Domestic Abuse

 

 

Last Reviewed - 19/04/2024