Any behaviour that makes someone else feel controlled and fearful is never OK. Everyone in a family or in a relationship should feel safe and nurtured.

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A healthy relationship is supportive, trusting and warm. But in some relationships one person uses power and fear to control the other. These relationships are emotionally abusive and can become extremely unsafe.

People in violent relationships feel frightened. They feel as though they cannot be themselves because their actions, thoughts and choices are determined by the person who is controlling them.

Witnessing violence at home makes children feel scared and alone. It can affect the way they behave and lead to problems at school or with their friends. Experiencing violence can physically harm children, make them anxious and fearful and affect the way their brain develops.

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No one should be frightened of their partner or someone in their family.

Domestic Violence is not just physical abuse, it can also include emotional, verbal, psychological, sexual, financial, social and spiritual abuse.

It can also involve behaviours such as stalking, name calling, harassment and intimidation.

Domestic Violence is not ok and there is help available.

If you or someone you know needs help please call the Domestic Violence Hotline on 1800RESPECT or in an emergency call 000.