For many, abuse is not a headline or a campaign. It’s a lived reality. It can mean constant fear, silence, and the feeling of being trapped. Survival becomes the daily goal. But survival is not where the story ends. With the right support, safety, and belief, survivors can move beyond fear, rebuild confidence, and step into lives defined by freedom and hope.
Understanding the signs of abuse
Domestic abuse is not always easy to recognise. It does not only mean physical violence. It can include patterns of control, fear, and manipulation that leave someone feeling isolated, powerless, and unsafe.
Some of the key signs to look out for include:
- Isolation: Being discouraged or prevented from seeing friends, family, or support networks.
- Control of money: Not being allowed to work, or being forced to account for every penny spent.
- Monitoring and surveillance: Checking phones, emails, or whereabouts constantly.
- Emotional abuse: Regular criticism, humiliation, or being made to feel worthless.
- Gaslighting: Twisting reality to make someone doubt their own memory or sanity.
- Threats and intimidation: Using words, looks, or gestures to create fear.
- Sexual abuse: Ignoring consent, forcing or pressuring someone into unwanted sexual activity.
- Physical violence: From pushing and shoving to serious assaults.
Abuse is about power and control. If someone’s behaviour makes you feel scared, trapped, or like you have no choices that is abuse.
How we can support you.
Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) and Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVA) services
Our trained ISVAs and IDVAs
provide compassionate confidential support to survivors of domestic and sexual abuse,
helping them navigate their options and access the services they need. This includes guidance through the legal process and emotional support.
Crisis Intervention
We offer immediate assistance for individuals who are in
crisis, ensuring they have access to safe spaces and essential resources.
Therapeutic Support
Why Awareness Matters
Domestic abuse thrives in silence. By talking openly about the different forms of abuse, we can empower survivors to recognise what’s happening and reach out for help. We can also equip friends, colleagues, and family members to notice the warning signs and safely offer support.
From Surviving to Thriving
This Domestic Abuse Awareness Month, Freeva stands with survivors at every stage of their journey. Survival is only the first step. With the right support, it is possible to move towards safety, confidence, and hope.
If you or someone you know is affected by violence or abuse, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Freeva is here to help, offering confidential support and resources to those in need.
