Definitions.
When talking about abuse organisations use certain phrases to describe the different forms of harm. There are a lot of terms that might feel unfamiliar and new - we've been there. So, we have put together a short list of definitions to help.
We also list a range of services that support women who have experienced these types of harm.
Our Glossary
Defining the Terminology
Domestic Violence and Abuse
Domestic violence and abuse refers to an "incident or a pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening, degrading and violent behaviour, including sexual violence"(Women's Aid). The person doing the harm could be a partner or ex-partner, carer or a family member. Abuse takes many different forms but it is most often perpetrated by men against women, though it is also present in same sex relationships.
Women's Aid share a lot more information about abuse and the myths that surround it, click here to read.
Watch this video by IDAS to hear about just some of the early signs of domestic abuse, particularly in abusive relationships.
Gender-based violence
Organisations often use the term 'gender-based violence' or GBV, this simply refers to violence that is directed at an individual based on his or her gender. Gender-based violence is mostly inflicted by men onto women and girls. It includes physical, sexual, verbal, emotional, and psychological abuse, threats, coercion, and economic or educational deprivation. It can occur in the public space and in private spaces, like at home.
Sexual Violence
Sexual violence is used to "describe any kind of unwanted sexual act or activity, including rape, sexual assault, sexual abuse, and many others"(Rape Crisis England).
Rape Crisis England support people who have experienced sexual violence, we have their London teams listed here.
Honour-based abuse
Honour-based abuse refers to punishment exacted upon individuals to 'protect' or 'defend' the honour of a community or family. The harm can take many forms including emotional abuse, physical abuse, family disownment, sexual violence and in some cases even murder.
Go to Karma Nirvana to learn more. They're a charity focusing on supporting victims of honour-based abuse.
Advocates and Independent Domestic Violence Advisors
Advocates support survivors of all forms of gender-based violence, whether that’s helping you find justice, supporting you to have a fresh start free of abuse or helping you stay safe while in an abusive environment. Many organisations also have Outreach Workers who can provide long-term or one-off support for someone experiencing abuse.
An Independent Domestic Violence Advisor or IDVA is a type of advocate you might find, they are a person who works to support the safety of people at risk of harm from intimate partners, ex-partners or family members. They provide practical support and guidance, with issues from housing to criminal proceedings and emotional support.
Many organisations provide advocates to support victims of abuse, here are just a few of them.
Safety Planning
Put simply a Safety Plan is a "personalised, practical plan to improve your safety" this might be while you are experiencing abuse, or preparing to leave an abusive situation, or a plan for after you leave.
It is tailored to your environment and the women's organisations we list here and the helplines we share, will be able to help you with Safety Planning. Women's Aid and IDAS provide more guidance on Safety Planning.