What is domestic and sexual violence and abuse

Domestic Violence and Abuse is threatening, controlling, coercive behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, virtual, physical, verbal, sexual, financial or emotional) inflicted on anyone (irrespective of age, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation or any form of disability) by a current or former intimate partner of family member.

Sexual Violence and Abuse is any behaviour (physical, psychological, verbal, virtual/online) perceived to be of a sexual nature which is controlling, coercive, exploitative, harmful or unwanted that is inflicted on anyone (irrespective of age, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation or any form of disability).

Coercive, exploitative and harmful behaviour includes taking advantage of an individual’s incapacity to give informed consent.

Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse in Northern Ireland Strategy 2016