Domestic violence is the intentional and persistent physical, emotional, or sexual abuse of a woman and her children in a way that causes pain, distress or injury and can lead to loss of life.
We believe women and children have a right to live free from all forms of violence and abuse, and society has a duty to recognise and defend this right.
Domestic Violence – The Facts
- Domestic violence includes rape and murder.
- Domestic violence is a human rights violation.
- One in four women will experience domestic violence.
- Domestic violence affects women of all ages, from young teenagers to women in their 80s and 90s.
- Over 30% of domestic violence starts during pregnancy.
- Domestic violence is a repeat crime that increases in frequency and severity over time.
- Women are on average assaulted 35 times before they seek help.
- It is estimated that 32,000 children are living with domestic violence in Northern Ireland (UNICEF 2006).
- Domestic violence is estimated to cost the Northern Ireland economy £180 million per year.
- The 24 Hour Domestic & Sexual Violence Helpline managed 47,597 calls in 2012-13.