Domestic Violence/Abuse is experienced by as many as 1 in 4 women in the UK, and some men during their lives. It can start at any time in a relationship and it can happen to anyone regardless of race, age, social standing, gender, or any other factors. It can be very dangerous, and as Stina explains in her episode, it can be surprisingly hard to walk away from, despite how clear it may seem from the outside.

The abuse experienced during cases of domestic violence can take many forms. The government defines Domestic Abuse as; 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. It goes on to specify that this can include, but is not limited to, abuse that is psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional.

The NHS describes controlling behaviour as range of acts designed to make a person subordinate and/or dependent by isolating them from sources of support, exploring their resources and capacities for personal gain, depriving them of the means needed for independence, resistance and escape and regulating their everyday behavior.

It goes on to characterize coercive behavior as an act or pattern of acts of assaults, threats, humiliation and intimidation or other abuse that is used to harm, punish or frighten their victim.

It should also be noted that Domestic Abuse is rarely a one-off, and that in the majority of cases it is not a loss of control on the part of the abuser, but rather a deliberate choice.

If you’re affected it can be an intense experience, so if you think you, or someone you know, is suffering from domestic violence, or any of the issues raised here, then the following organisations offer help and support.

• Channel 4 Help and Support
• Refuge UK
• Citizens Advice
• The National Domestic Violence Helpline
• Men's Advice Line