Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse is never acceptable.
The University of Wolverhampton is committed to creating a safe environment where students and staff can access support if they are experiencing abuse, controlling behaviour or violence within a personal relationship.
Domestic abuse can affect anyone, regardless of:
- age
- sex
- gender identity
- sexual orientation
- ethnicity
- faith
- disability
- relationship status
You do not have to be living with someone for domestic abuse to occur.
Support is available whether the abuse is current, recent or historic.
What is Domestic Abuse?
Domestic abuse is any incident or pattern of incidents involving:
- controlling behaviour
- coercive behaviour
- threatening behaviour
- violence
- abuse
between people aged 16 or over who are personally connected.
Domestic abuse can occur between:
- current partners
- former partners
- spouses
- family members
- people who share parental responsibility for a child
Domestic abuse is not always physical.
Types of Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse can include:
Emotional or Psychological Abuse
- intimidation
- humiliation
- manipulation
- threats
- isolation from friends or family
- undermining confidence or self-worth
Coercive and Controlling Behaviour
- monitoring movements or communications
- controlling finances
- restricting independence
- controlling access to support
- making someone fearful of consequences if they do not comply
Physical Abuse
- hitting
- pushing
- punching
- kicking
- strangulation
- physical intimidation
Sexual Abuse
- unwanted sexual activity
- sexual coercion
- sexual assault
- reproductive coercion
Economic Abuse
- controlling money
- preventing access to income
- creating debt
- restricting employment or education opportunities
Digital Abuse
- monitoring phones or devices
- tracking location
- excessive messaging
- controlling online activity
Recognising Domestic Abuse
You may be experiencing domestic abuse if someone:
- makes you feel afraid
- controls what you do, where you go or who you see
- constantly checks on you
- threatens you or people you care about
- humiliates or degrades you
- controls your finances
- damages your belongings
- isolates you from support networks
- pressures you into unwanted sexual activity
Abuse often develops gradually and can become more severe over time.
Domestic Abuse and Safeguarding
Domestic abuse is a safeguarding issue.
Experiencing domestic abuse can significantly affect:
- physical safety
- mental health and wellbeing
- study and work performance
- attendance and engagement
- housing and financial stability
The University's Safeguarding Team can provide advice and support where domestic abuse concerns are identified.
Reporting a Concern
If you are experiencing domestic abuse, or are worried about somebody else, you can raise a concern through the University's Report + Support system.
You can:
Report a Concern
Submit an identifiable report if you would like support and contact from a member of staff.
Submit an Anonymous Report
If you do not wish to identify yourself, you can make an anonymous report.
Where available, anonymous two-way messaging may allow you to receive advice whilst protecting your identity.
Immediate Danger
If you or somebody else is in immediate danger:
Call 999
If you cannot speak, you can use the Silent Solution system by calling 999 and pressing 55 when prompted.
Do not wait for a Report + Support submission to be reviewed if urgent assistance is required.
Support Available
The University can provide:
- safeguarding support
- wellbeing support
- advice and guidance
- signposting to specialist services
Specialist support is also available through organisations such as:
- Black Country Women's Aid
- Refuge
- Men's Advice Line
- Victim Support
- NHS services
Further information about these services can be found within this support section.
Remember
Domestic abuse is never your fault.
Help is available, and support is available whether you choose to report the abuse, leave a relationship, or simply want to understand your options.
The University will listen, take concerns seriously and help you access the support that is right for you.