Domestic abuse

Do you need help with domestic abuse?

If you’re in a violent or abusive relationship, or if you’re supporting somebody in that situation, check this link to see what national level advice, guidance and help is available.

What is domestic abuse?

Domestic abuse currently affects millions of people in the UK. The Government is determined to prevent domestic abuse happening or recurring, to protect and support its victims, and to bring offenders to justice.

The Government defines Domestic Abuse as 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 encompass but is not limited to:

• psychological
• physical
• sexual
• financial
• emotional

This definition includes so called ‘honour’ based violence, female genital mutilation(FGM) and forced marriage, and is clear that victims are not confined to one gender or ethnic group.

Within this definition:

Controlling behaviour – is a range of acts designed to make a person 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 and regulating their everyday behaviour.

Coercive behaviour – is an act or a pattern of acts of assault, threats, humiliation and intimidation or other abuse that is used to harm, punish, or frighten their victim.

Whatever form it takes, domestic abuse is rarely a one-off incident, and should instead be seen as a pattern of abusive and controlling behaviour through which the abuser seeks power over their victim. Domestic abuse occurs across society, regardless of age, gender, race, sexuality, wealth, and geography. The figures show, however, that it consists mainly of violence by men against women. Children are also affected. Not only are many traumatised by what they witness; there is also a strong connection between domestic abuse, sexual violence and child abuse.

A brand new, one-stop centre has been opened where people affected by domestic violence can simply drop in and speak to a range of experts and advisors from different partner agencies. The Oasis Centre is open in Church Street, Pontypridd from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Thursday and 9am to 4.30pm on Fridays.

You can simply drop in to find out more information, advice and support on issues. We are here to help!

For more information and advice on domestic abuse visit our website on the following link or call:

All Wales Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Helpline’ 0808 80 10 800