Domestic abuse behaviour can mean any kind of physical or emotional abuse between those in a current or past intimate or family relationship.
The cross-government definition of domestic violence and abuse is:
"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
Domestic abuse can affect people across society regardless of age, gender, race, sexuality, wealth and geography.
Controlling behaviour
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
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.
University Support
If you have experienced harassment or abuse and are not sure what to do, help and support are available. By speaking to someone at the University, we can help you better understand what is happening and discuss the support options available with you.
Student Development & Well-being
Student Development & Well-Being can provide you with help and advice if you're experiencing abuse and can assist you to identify other services where you can access further support.
T: 0151 291 3427
E: sdw@hope.ac.uk
Residential Life
The Residential Life Team are there to support all students living in university halls of residence. You can speak with your Senior Resident Tutor (SRT) or contact the Residential Life Coordinator.
E: residentiallife@hope.ac.uk
Chaplaincy
Our Chaplaincy Team offers spiritual and pastoral support to students.
T: 0151 291 3545
E: chaplaincy@hope.ac.uk
Campus Security
The Campus Security Team provides a 24-hour presence on all campuses. They are a point of contact and support for students who are feeling at risk wherever that student is living. You can contact the security lodges at any time. However, if it is urgent, please use the emergency numbers listed below.
Students’ Union Support
Students’ Union Advice
Can help students with information, advice and representation around all aspects of student welfare and education.
T: 0151 291 3708
E: suadvice@hope.ac.uk
Liverpool Hope Nightline
is a confidential listening and information service run for students by students. We offer anonymous, non-judgemental and non-directive support for all callers, regardless of the situation.
W: https://liverpoolhopenightline.carrd.co/
Local and National Support
Worst Kept Secret Merseyside
A free confidential support helpline that doesn’t show up on your phone bill.
W: https://worstkeptsecret.org.uk/
T: 0800 028 3398
E: wks@localsolutions.org.uk
LDAS (Liverpool Domestic Abuse Service)
aims to protect, support, and empower women and girls who suffer from domestic abuse, to live safe and independent lives.
W: https://liverpooldomesticabuseservice.org.uk/
T: 0151 263 7474/0800 084 2744 (Freephone)
RASA (Rape and Sexual Abuse) Merseyside
is here for anyone who has been sexually abused or raped, or who has been affected by sexual violence at any time in their lives.
W: https://www.rasamerseyside.org/home
T: 0151 666 1392
E: helpline@rasamerseyside.org
Karma Nirvana
supports victims of honour-based abuse and forced marriages.
W: https://karmanirvana.org.uk/
T: 0800 5999 247
Home Office Forced Marriage Unit
T: 020 7008 0151
Refuge - Women’s Aid 24-hour helpline
W: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/
T: 0808 2000 247
Men’s Advice Line
Confidential helpline for male victims of domestic abuse.
W: https://mensadviceline.org.uk/
T: 0808 801 0327
E: info@mensadviceline.org.uk
When on campus
In an emergency, please contact your campus security lodge on the numbers below - The staff there will take the necessary action to assist you, including contacting the police, where appropriate. Don’t call the emergency services yourself as this may delay them in getting to you quickly. The campus security team will arrange to meet the emergency services at the Lodge and accompany them to your location.
Security lodges are staffed 24 hours a day.
When off campus
In an emergency, contact the police by ringing 999.
You can call the UK non-emergency number 101 if you need support or advice from the police and it is not an emergency.
The Survivor’s Handbook - practical support and information for women experiencing domestic abuse, with simple guidance on every aspect of seeking support.
How to cover your tracks online.
How to make a safety plan.
