Domestic Abuse (Early Intervention)

Domestic abuse is a pattern of abusive behaviour in any relationship that is used by a partner or family member to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner or family member. Early intervention means identifying and supporting people at risk of, or experiencing, domestic abuse before it escalates, with the aim of preventing long-term harm to children, adults and families.

On this page you'll find resources and guidance to help identify and prevent domestic abuse, promote healthy relationships and access support.

If you choose to leave an abusive relationship, this can often be a dangerous time. Abusers may feel they are losing the control in the relationship, which can put you at an increased risk of abuse. It's important you get support and safety planning advice first. If you are in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the police. If you can’t speak, press 55 on your mobile or remain silent on your landline while the operator is on the line.

Domestic abuse is never acceptable. Services want to hear from you and are ready to listen and help - see the links below for more information.

General Resources and What to Look Out For

People who are being abused may:

• Seem afraid or anxious to please their partner/family member
• Go along with everything their partner/family member says and does
• Check in often with their partner/family member to report what they’re doing
• Receive frequent, harassing phone calls
• Talk about their partner’s or family member's temper, jealousy, or possessiveness

Have you spotted signs that someone is at risk of domestic abuse? It could be a friend, family member or neighbour. If you are worried about them, the below support services are there to help. Remember: domestic abuse isn’t just physical - it can be emotional, sexual or financial.

For support services in the Humber region, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner has dedicated websites aimed at victims and perpetrators of domestic abuse:

Resources for Parents and Carers

Helping parents recognise warning signs and have supportive conversations.

Resources for Schools and Education Settings

Lesson plans, assemblies and curriculum resources.

Pol-Ed is an education programme written by teachers for teachers. Its purpose is to keep children safe by developing their understanding of risks, consequences and the law, and to improve their resilience and ability to help and support each other. The Pol-Ed team has created themed lessons to support teaching about domestic abuse. From early years foundation stage to post-16, the high-quality materials are tailored for each age group. Their resources are free for all schools, education settings and community groups in the Humber region.

Resources for Practitioners

Professional guidance, evidence and referral resources for anyone working with children and young people.

Resources for Young People

Trusted organisations offering advice and support.