Living in fear for your own safety and the well-being of your children is facing the fact that you are a victim of domestic violence and abuse
It is a very common occurrence and can start at any stage of a relationship and can also be for many reasons. It may even continue long after a relationship has ended. Abuse can come in the form of physical attacks, verbal threats and controlling behaviour, mental and verbal abuse, humiliation, bullying, forced sex, threats to hurt you and your children and enforced isolation from family and friends.

You may have been a victim of such circumstances for many years or one outburst may have been enough to convince you that for your own sake and the sake of your children you must 'get out' now.

Above all you will feel afraid of the consequences of leaving. Don't blame yourself. You have a right to live without fear and violence. You will probably feel ashamed, alone and confused. These feeling are all very common.

If you have left your home or are planning to, it is important that you are fully aware of all the help and support you can get and that you are well prepared.

Women's Aid can provide a vital source of information and advice, which is given in the strictest confidence. They can give you information on staying in a refuge and how to arrange it, what to do about money, rent, your home. They can advise on the affects on children and how to get protection from violence and who can help you.
Visit their web site or call the National Domestic Violence Helpline 0345 023 468 .