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Relationships & Safety

Respect, safety and calm communication.

Ordinary disagreements can sometimes be calmed. Abuse is different: the victim is never responsible for managing the abusive person.

When an ordinary argument is rising

  1. Stop the discussion and move children away from the conflict.
  2. Use one sentence: “We are both upset. I am pausing this for 30 minutes.”
  3. Create space. Do not block doors, follow someone room to room or take their phone.
  4. Return only when both people can speak without threats, insults or intimidation.
  5. Discuss one issue at a time and agree a practical next step.

Signs this may be domestic abuse

Threats, violence, coercive control, stalking, isolation, financial control, sexual pressure, monitoring devices, destroying property or making someone afraid.

In immediate danger, call 999. Do not confront an abusive person if that could increase risk.

Healthy relationships

  • You can say no without punishment.
  • Both people keep friendships, privacy and control of their own money.
  • Consent must be freely given every time.
  • Jealousy, pressure and constant monitoring are not proof of love.