Domestic Abuse

Domestic violence is one of the 10 categories of abuse identified within the Care Act.

The cross-government definition of domestic violence and abuse is:

"Any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, 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"

The abuse includes, but is not limited to, psychological, physical, sexual, financial, emotional abuse, honour-based violence harassment, slurs or similar treatment, racism, gender and gender identity, ageism, disability, sexual orientation, religion.

Under the Care Act 2014, the safeguarding duties apply to an adult who:

• has needs for care and support (whether or not the local authority is meeting any of those needs)
• is experiencing, or at risk of, abuse or neglect
• as a result of those care and support needs is unable to protect themselves from either the risk of, or the experience of abuse or neglect

If you suspect someone who is suffering domestic abuse also meets the criteria under the care act, you can report your concerns online.

Further information

Further information on the support which is available from Gateshead Council for people suffering domestic abuse can be found on their website.