Domestic Abuse, HBV and FGM
Domestic violence, or domestic abuse, is a behaviour pattern where one person controls another in an intimate or family relationship. It can take different forms:
Physical Abuse: This includes hitting, slapping, punching, or any other form of physical harm.
Emotional and Psychological Abuse: This involves manipulation, intimidation, and verbal abuse. Other tactics are used to undermine the victim’s mental and emotional well-being.
Sexual Abuse: This encompasses any non-consensual sexual contact or behaviour.
Economic Abuse: This includes controlling a person’s access to financial resources, thus limiting their independence and ability to support themselves.
Coercive Control: This involves a range of controlling behaviors. These include isolating the victim from friends and family. They also involve monitoring their activities and restricting their freedom.
Domestic violence can have severe and long-lasting effects on the victim’s physical and mental health. It’s crucial to recognise the signs and seek help if you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence. Many organisations and helplines are available to offer support and assistance.
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Child Abuse
When concerns arise about a child’s safety, it’s crucial to take action based on observable signs or behavioural changes, rather than seeking proof. Sharing your worries with the appropriate safeguarding lead is essential, as safeguarding is a shared responsibility. Timely intervention can significantly enhance a child’s safety and wellbeing.
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Key Guidance on Female Genital Mutilation
This guidance on female genital mutilation (FGM) is for all persons and bodies in England and Wales. You must read and follow this guidance if you are under statutory duties to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. Multi Agency Statutory Guidance on Female Genital Mutilation Download PDF Document You should read…
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Insights from the Fourth Domestic Homicide Report 2025
Fourth Domestic Homicide Report – Vulnerability Knowledge and Practice Programme The National Policing Vulnerability Knowledge and Practice Programme (VKPP), published its fourth annual report in March 2025. The report uses data deriving from the Domestic Homicide Project. These data sets came from across England and Wales. All deaths categorised as domestic abuse have been collated…
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Honour-Based Violence
Honour-Based Violence (HBV) is abuse intended to protect a family’s or community’s perceived honour, involving physical, sexual, psychological, and domestic abuse. It can also include forced marriages and isolation. Victims are often blamed for bringing shame through personal choices.