Domestic abuse is when someone close to you behaves in a way that inflicts physical, mental or emotional damage. There is more to domestic abuse than physical violence.

Domestic abuse leaves people feeling vulnerable. Many feel unable to escape because of financial concerns, and believe they have nowhere safe to go. But there are options - find out more.

If you leave your home because of domestic abuse or threats, you may want to stay at a refuge. You don't have to leave permanently to get a place, you can use the time to help you make decisions.

Many women are reluctant to leave their partners because they don't have the financial resources to support themselves on their own. However, there are ways you can get help.

You may be able to make your partner leave your home. This will depend on your housing rights. Remember, if you are in danger, you can always call the police on 999.

There are different ways you can take legal action against your partner. Rather than leaving your home, you may choose to apply to keep your partner away from your home, or go to the police.

If you become homeless from domestic abuse, you can get help from a local council, or from another council. You don't have to be roofless to be homeless - you may be staying with friends.

Men can also experience domestic abuse from their partners. The statutory and legal remedies open to women wishing to escape an abusive relationship apply equally to men.

This page contains information on and links to organisations that can help women and men undergoing violence or abuse at home.