Domestic violence can happen to anyone and can result in people losing their self-confidence and being injured.
Violence in the home can happen to anyone – it doesn’t matter what your sex is, your age or your family situation. If you're a victim or worried about someone else, you should know where to go for help.
What is domestic violence?
Domestic violence covers any violent behaviour in a family or a relationship. This can include abuse by one family member to another or between two people in a relationship.Another kind of domestic violence is child abuse where a child or young person is harmed, neglected or bullied by an older adult. You don't have to be physically hurt to be a victim of child abuse.
If you're constantly being sworn at or told that you're unwanted, this can also be classed as emotional abuse.
Domestic violence is never acceptable and Northumbria Police is committed to protecting the lives of both adult and child victims.
Domestic Violence can be psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional; it can be between partners in a relationship or even family members.
If you're being hurt
If you've been physically or mentally harmed by a parent, carer, older relative or someone you're in a relationship with, then you are a victim of domestic violence.It's important to remember that you are not to blame.
Many victims of domestic violence believe they have created or caused the problems which led to the violence.
This is not the case. The only person to blame is the one committing the violent acts.
If you feel confident enough, call the police. They take crimes like this very seriously and can act quickly.
If you don't want to call the police, talk to a friend or a teacher who you trust.
Reporting a crime
If you're worried that one of your friends, parents or carers is a victim of domestic violence, tell them about your concerns.It's best to help them talk through it and support them if they decide to go to the police.
