Domestic Abuse - Advice from the Norfolk Police
We are committed to supporting anyone who is a victim of domestic abuse and will work with our partner agencies to help you.
Our message is simple - no-one need suffer in silence.
Domestic abuse can include 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.
The abuse can be:
- psychological
- physical
- sexual
- financial
- emotional
- Controlling behaviour
Controlling behaviour is a range of acts which make someone subordinate and/or dependent by:
- isolating them from sources of support
- exploiting their resources and capacities for personal gain
- depriving them of the means needed for independence, resistance and escape
- regulating their everyday behaviour.
Coercive behaviour
- assault
- threats
- humiliation
- intimidation
Coercive behaviour is an act or a pattern of acts of abuse that is used to harm, punish, or frighten their victim.
This definition, which is not a legal definition, includes honour-based abuse, female genital mutilation and forced marriage.
If this is happening to you, it is important to remember that it is not your fault, and you need help and support to keep safe. If you feel in immediate danger as a result of domestic abuse, dial 999 straight away and wait in a safe place for the police to arrive.
Our police officers are highly trained to deal with domestic abuse. They will listen and treat victims with sensitivity and respect. Your safety is important to us.
In addition to the police, there are specialist support agencies which can help individuals affected by domestic abuse.
Please don’t be worried about talking to us, we will always listen to you and do everything we can to help.