Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse

Here you will find information on domestic and sexual violence and abuse.

Anyone can be affected by domestic and sexual violence and abuse.   It is an unfortunate fact that for many it remains unreported, hidden.

We want to send a clear message that Domestic and Sexual violence and abuse is unacceptable and tackling the issue is important to the Department of Justice and to Government. 

In March 2016 we published, jointly with the Department of Health,  the “Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse in Northern Ireland” Strategy.  This Strategy includes new Government definitions for both domestic and sexual violence and abuse:

Domestic violence and abuse

Threatening, controlling, coercive behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, virtual, physical, verbal, sexual, financial or emotional)inflicted on anyone (irrespective of age, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation or any form of disability) by a current or former intimate partner or family member.’

Sexual violence and abuse

Any behaviour (physical, psychological, verbal, virtual/online) perceived to be of a sexual nature which is controlling, coercive, exploitative, harmful, or unwanted that is inflicted on anyone (irrespective of age, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation or any form of disability).’

Please note that coercive, exploitative and harmful behaviour includes taking advantage of an individual’s incapacity to give informed consent.

Government Strategy and Implementation Plan

The seven year Strategy also sets out the key priorities we aim to achieve going forward.  We have published an implementation plan which outlines the key actions needed to deliver the priorities.

If you need urgent help

If you have been a victim of domestic or sexual violence, or if you are in fear of imminent danger, call the police on 999 immediately.

If you have been affected by domestic and sexual violence and abuse and need support, please contact the 24 hour domestic and sexual violence helpline on:

phone: 0808 802 1414 (Freephone)
email: 24hrsupport@dvhelpline.org
text: 'support' to 07797805839

 

 

 

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