About domestic abuse
Domestic abuse is any type of abuse that happens between people who are or have been intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality. It can include psychological, physical, sexual, financial, and emotional abuse.
- Psychological abuse
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Financial abuse
- Emotional abuse
Find out more about the types of abuse here.
Controlling behaviour
Is any type of behaviour that is designed to make a person subordinate and/or dependent, such as isolating them from friends and family, monitoring their movements, and making all of the decisions for them.
Coercive behaviour
Is any type of behaviour that is used to harm, punish, or frighten a person, such as threats, assaults, and intimidation.
Domestic abuse can have a devastating impact on the victim's physical and emotional health, as well as their relationships and their ability to work and support themselves. It is important to remember that domestic abuse is never the victim's fault, and there is always help available.
Early warning signs of domestic abuse
- Being cut off from family and friends and being isolated
- Suffering humiliation or being insulted in front of others
- Constantly getting criticised and being told you can’t cope without them
How to report domestic abuse
- If you are in danger, call the Police on 999
- The First Step, 0151 548 3333
- National Domestic Violence Helpline 24 hours, 0808 2000 247
Support services for victims and perpetrators of domestic abuse
Knowsley Early Help Hub
Freephone helpline on 0800 073 0043 and ask for your information to be passed onto the Early Help Hub and one of our staff will call you back.
The First Step (Specialist Domestic Abuse Service)
Telephone
0151 548 3333
Website
Knowsley Council Safer Communities Domestic Abuse Service
Telephone
0151 443 2610*
Enquiries.safercommunities@knowsley.gov.uk
*Please note the team are only available during office hours.
Knowsley Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub
Telephone
0151 443 2600
Specialist Domestic Violence Courts
Perpetrators of domestic abuse will be fast-tracked through the criminal justice system in specialist courts. Specially trained magistrates will hear these cases, ensuring that offenders are dealt with quickly and severely.
Independent advocates (IDVAs)
These are available to support victim survivors in high risk cases, providing advice and information at the point of crisis
Knowsley Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC)
This is a multi agency approach to supporting high risk victim survivors of domestic abuse and any children involved
White Ribbon campaign
An annual event encouraging people to wear a white ribbon and pledging never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women
Freedom Programme
Offered in Knowsley, helps women understand domestic abuse and how perpetrators use different tactics to control them.
Contact The First Step on 0151 548 3333 for more details.
Knowsley Domestic Abuse Champions
Knowsley Council and its partners have introduced Domestic Abuse Champions, dedicated people in organisations who staff can turn to for support.
Related websites
Knowsley Domestic Abuse Strategy 2022 to 2025
In April 2021 The Domestic Abuse Act was enacted to support victims of domestic abuse Domestic Abuse Act 2021.
The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 requires local authorities to assess the needs of people affected by domestic abuse. They must then publish a strategy on how they will respond to these needs.
This strategy outlines how Knowsley Council will work with partners to address the impact of domestic abuse and meet the requirements of the Act. It summarises the current responses and priorities for improving support for victims, children, and perpetrators, both in the community and in safe accommodation.