Domestic abuse

The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 defines domestic abuse as ‘any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality’.

Domestic abuse has a huge impact on society and is one of the most pervasive of all social problems. It causes pain and suffering for those affected and their family, and has a significant cost to public services and the local community. It is often a hidden crime, with people experiencing domestic abuse reluctant to report their situation and friends, neighbours or family hesitant to get involved.

Under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, local authorities are required to regularly assess the need for accommodation-based domestic abuse support in their area. The latest Domestic Abuse Needs Assessment is available to download in the ‘Related Documents’ section of this page.

If you are experiencing, or have been affected by, domestic violence or abuse, the Domestic Abuse page of the main Herefordshire Council website can provide help or advice.