Domestic Abuse Protection
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on UK Acts of Parliament, statutory instruments, and official guidance.
UK National Law
What is this right?
The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 created the first statutory definition of domestic abuse, which includes:
- Physical abuse — hitting, pushing, restraining
- Emotional/psychological abuse — intimidation, threats, isolation
- Coercive or controlling behaviour — restricting finances, monitoring movements, controlling who you see (this is a criminal offence)
- Economic abuse — controlling access to money, preventing you from working
- Sexual abuse
Children who see, hear, or experience the effects of domestic abuse are recognised as victims in their own right.
When does it apply?
- Applies to anyone aged 16 or over who is personally connected to the abuser — current or former partners, family members, or people who share parental responsibility for a child.
- Clare's Law (Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme) allows you to ask the police if your partner has a history of domestic abuse — you can make a "right to ask" request.
- Both women and men can be victims. Abuse in same-sex relationships is also covered.
- You do not need to have reported the abuse to police to access civil court protection.
What should you do?
- If you're in immediate danger, call 999.
- Call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247 (24 hours, free, confidential).
- Apply for a non-molestation order to stop the abuser contacting or threatening you — this can be granted urgently, even without the abuser being present. Breaching it is a criminal offence.
- Apply for an occupation order to decide who can live in the family home.
- If you need to leave, contact your local refuge through the National Helpline. You may also qualify for legal aid for domestic abuse cases.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't stay silent — domestic abuse tends to escalate over time. Seek help early.
- Don't blame yourself — abuse is always the abuser's responsibility.
- Don't assume you can't get help without police involvement — you can get a non-molestation order through the Family Court without a criminal case.
Northern Ireland Law
Choose your region
How Northern Ireland differs from UK national law
Northern Ireland has its own domestic abuse legislation:
- The Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 created a new criminal offence of domestic abuse, including coercive control.
- Penalties: up to 14 years' imprisonment on indictment (compared to 5 years in England & Wales for coercive control).
- The PSNI operates a Domestic Abuse Risk Assessment process.
- Non-molestation orders are available through the Family Court under the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (NI) Order 1998.
Additional Steps in Northern Ireland
- Call the 24-hour Domestic & Sexual Abuse Helpline on 0808 802 1414.
- Contact Women's Aid NI at womensaidni.org.
Relevant Law: Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021; Family Homes and Domestic Violence (Northern Ireland) Order 1998
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