Domestic abuse is threats, violence, controlling or coercive behaviour between people who have, or have had, a relationship with each other.
Domestic abuse can happen to anyone and is based on one person having control over another.
Behaviour can include:
- coercive and controlling behaviour
- psychological and/or emotional abuse
- physical, financial and sexual abuse
- stalking and harassment
- online/digital abuse.
If you feel frightened of, or controlled by, a partner, an ex-partner, or family member remember that it is not your fault and there is no shame in seeking help.
Urgent support
- The University’s Security Service provide a 24-hour presence on campus. They can help if you are feeling at risk, wherever you are living. Call the Security Services emergency number: +44(0)113 343 2222.
- Make Yourself Heard – when you need to call the UK’s emergency services on 999 but can’t talk.
- West Yorkshire Police have specially trained officers who can provide support and practical assistance to those who suffer domestic abuse.
Things you can do to increase your safety
- Create a safety plan: identify safe places to go in an emergency, plan escape routes, and keep spare keys and emergency funds accessible.
- Prepare emergency contacts: carry a list of important numbers and be ready to call 999 if you are in immediate danger.
- Build a support network: tell a trusted friend, family member, neighbour, or housemate about the abuse and agree on how they can help in an emergency.
- Document and report abuse: keep a record of incidents and injuries, and report any injuries to your GP to ensure they are formally documented.
Self-help resources
- Women’s Aid – The Survivor’s Handbook – provides practical support and information for women experiencing domestic abuse.
- Men’s Advice Line – Information and advice for male victims of domestic abuse
- IDAS – Safety plan
- UK Says No More – Safe Spaces – find a safe space near you.
Apps
Only use apps if you are sure your devices aren’t being monitored.
- Bright Sky – provides practical support and information on how to respond to domestic abuse.
- My Support Space – a confidential and secure space to help you move forward from crime.
Support from the University
- Our Harassment and Misconduct team can support you if you’ve experienced any kind of violence, abuse, bullying, harassment, sexual misconduct or discrimination. Report domestic abuse anonymously or speak to the team to discuss your options.
- Our Student Wellbeing Service offers free, confidential support to our students. You can complete the self-referral form, but if you need more urgent advice about your situation, you can email the Duty Practitioner at studentwellbeing@leeds.ac.uk.
- Speak to a Leeds University Union advisor for practical, legal, and emotional support.
Local support services
- Leeds Domestic Violence Service (LDVS) – works with women, men, and families in Leeds, offering emergency accommodation, support, advice and advocacy.
- Leeds Women’s Aid – an independent charity based in Leeds, providing a range of domestic violence and abuse services.
- Behind Closed Doors – offers support to anyone who has experienced domestic abuse, offering confidential information, practical advice and support.
- West Yorkshire Police Forced Marriage Unit – support if you’re trying to stop a forced marriage or if you need help leaving a marriage you’ve been forced into.
National helplines
- 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline – confidential, non-judgmental support and information on your options.
- Men’s Advice Line – provides advice and supports heterosexual, gay, bisexual, and trans men experiencing domestic violence and abuse.
- Galop – provides advocacy and casework support for LGBT+ people who have experience abuse and violence.
- Karma Nirvana – supports victims of honour-based abuse and forced marriage.