Reporting Abuse
If you've experienced or witnessed abuse, or if you or anyone else is in immediate danger, call 999.
Reporting abuse to the police isn't your only option. There are other people you can report abuse to, depending on where and when the abuse has taken place.
If you don’t feel ready or don’t want to make a report, but feel you want to speak to someone and get advice about what you have experienced, you can get support from a range of specialist organisations.
Find out more about the national Enough campaign.
Domestic Abuse in Sefton
Abuse takes many forms.
It can be emotional, physical, sexual or financial. It can be words or actions. At home or in the street. It can be inflicted by a partner, ex-partner, family member, colleague, friend or stranger. It can be in person, through technology and online.
Whatever form it takes, abuse is never justified. Any behaviour that demeans, frightens or distresses is abuse. It has to stop.
Spotting The Signs
Knowing what abuse is helps us all recognise it when it happens. We can all do something to keep women and girls safe.
- Abuse can be emotional, physical, sexual or financial.
- The abuser can be a partner, ex-partner, family member, community leader or member, a friend, someone at work or a stranger.
- It can happen to anyone: an adult or a child, female or male.
- It can happen at home or in a public place like a community centre, school or work.
- It can be in person, or through technology and online.
How Can You Help?
Many of us have seen some form of abusive and harmful behaviour against women and girls, but it can be difficult to know whether to intervene. Some people worry they’ve maybe misread the situation and could make things worse.
Some worry about putting themselves at risk. If you’re unsure about whether to intervene, here are some key signs to look out for.
- Does the person look uncomfortable or upset?
- Are they trying to escape or move away?
- Do they seem frightened?
- When you make eye contact, do they respond in a way that makes you think they want help?
Intervening doesn’t have to be dramatic or confrontational. Even small acts of recognition and support can help stop abuse. Here are four simple ways to help you step in safely – just think STOP.
Find ways of intervening and other helpful tips here.