Domestic violence and abuse

Domestic violence and abuse can mean any kind of physical or emotional abuse between those in a current or past, intimate or family relationship. Perpetrators can be partners, ex-partners or family members, including siblings.

It is controlling, coercive or aggressive behaviour where violence can be actual or threatened. Abuse can be physical, emotional, financial or sexual and can include a range of criminal offences: assault, rape, threats against a life, harassment, stalking and criminal damage.

Domestic violence and abuse can happen to anyone regardless of their gender, sexuality, age and social or ethnic background.

The NHS Live Well website contains useful information about abuse and domestic violence.

If you or someone else is at immediate risk of harm call 999 or campus security on 0161 247 2222.

There are several ways to report an incident, and you can choose to report anonymously if you wish.

Consent

The University is committed to creating a safe environment for students to feel respected and supported as well as raising awareness of issues surrounding sexual consent and healthy relationships – find out more about consent through our Consent Matters training.

Supporting a friend

If you know someone that needs support there are services that can help. When helping a friend through a difficult time, it’s important to look after yourself too. It can be worrying when a friend is upset or, if you’ve had a similar experience, it can bring back difficult memories or feelings. If you or someone you know would benefit from speaking to someone, answer three short wellbeing questions online and be directed to the appropriate team.

If a friend is experiencing domestic abuse and would like to feel safer on campus, tell them about the Safe Zone app.

Useful contacts

• End the Fear Greater Manchester Domestic Violence Helpline 0161 636 7525
• Forced Marriage Unit 020 7008 0151. In an emergency call 999
• Galop Support for LGBT+ people who have experienced hate crime, sexual violence or domestic abuse
• Karma Nirvana Supporting victims of forced marriage and honour based violence 0800 5999 247
• Manchester Women’s Aid/Pankhurst Trust Information, advice and support about domestic and sexual abuse/violence 0161 660 7999
• Men’s Advice Line Service for all men experiencing domestic abuse 0808 801 0327
• National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000 247, available 24/7
• National Stalking Helpline advice and information on personal safety 0808 802 0300
• Saheli Advice, support and accommodation run by women for Asian women 0161 945 4187
• Victim Support Email support and 24 hour helpline 0808 168 9111
• Women’s Aid Information, advice, support for domestic and sexual abuse/violence 0808 2000 24/7