Student Services

Women

Domestic abuse exists as part of violence against women and girls as a “gendered crime”. Women experience higher rates of repeated victimisation and are much more likely to be seriously hurt. It’s estimated that one woman is killed by her male partner or former partner every four days in England and Wales and at least 1 in 3 women  have been subject to domestic abuse. Some researchers suggest that the causes of this are deeply rooted in historical, societal inequality between women and men.

• One in four women said they have been a victim of domestic abuse in their lifetime
• On average, one woman is killed by an abusive partner or ex every five days in England and Wales

We recognise that everyone’s experience of abuse will be different, we understand that society does not treat everyone equally and that there are multiple forms of discrimination and violence that some people can face. We provide support for any student of the university, regardless of sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, religion, ethnic group, who is experiencing domestic abuse, we listen to them and treat them as an individual with their own unique experiences finding the support that is right for them.

LGBTQ+

• About 25% of LGBT people suffer through violent or threatening relationships with partners or ex-partners

We recognise the ways in which lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people can experience abuse and the barriers that can prevent them from accessing support. Whilst heterosexual and LGBTQ+ people may experience similar patterns in abusive relationships there are some specific issues that are unique to the experiences of LGBTQ+ people such a:

• Your partner threatening to disclose your sexual orientation/gender identity
• Your partner using society’s gender norms and stereotyping to convince you that you are no being abused or that no one would believe you
• Undermining your identity
• Controlling your access to LGBTQ+ spaces and networks
• Making derogatory remarks about your gender identity/expression

This can cause you to experience increased isolation.

We provide support for any student of the university, regardless of sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, religion, ethnic group, who is experiencing domestic abuse, we listen to them and treat them as an individual with their own unique experiences finding the support that is right for them.

Men

Domestic abuse is not acceptable and should never be tolerated, irrespective of the person’s sex or gender identity. Many people have the misconception that men do not experience domestic abuse but they can, both in gay and straight relationships.

• One in five men said they have been a victim of domestic abuse in their lifetime

• One in fifteen men said they were a victim of domestic abuse in 2023/24

We provide support for any student of the university, regardless of sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, religion, ethnic group, who is experiencing domestic abuse, we listen to them and treat them as an individual with their own unique experiences finding the support that is right for them.

You are not responsible for somebody else’s actions/abuse – only they are and only they can stop it. But there are things you can think about and do to increase your own safety. You can explore safety planning further with the Sexual and Domestic Abuse Service in Student Wellbeing.

You can also:

• Download a personal safety app (e.g. HollieGuard)
• Have your phone always charged/carry a portable charger
• Plan how to respond in an emergency
• Have your personal belongings, keys, money, personal identification with you always
• Keep a log of evidence
• Be mindful of your internet usage and history

“Shatter the Silence” video was created by the Student Commission on Consent and Sexual Violence and discusses the most common types of sexual violence experienced by young people across all genders and sexualities. It shows that in order to end sexual violence we must shatter the silence around this issue. Student Commissioners are bringing the voices of hundreds of young people to the forefront in order to influence change.

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, it can be isolating and difficult to find support or think about your options. UK SAYS NO MORE is working with: Boots, Pharmacies with Morrisons/Superdrug/Well, independent pharmacies, HSBC and TSB banks across the UK to provide Safe Spaces in their consultation rooms for people experiencing domestic abuse. You can use a Safe Space in whichever way works for you. They provide a safe and discrete way to reach out to friends and family and contact specialist support services. Safe Spaces are open and ready for you to use.

Find a Safe Space near you

Bright Sky is a safe, easy to use app and website that provides practical support and information on how to respond to domestic abuse. It is for anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or who is worried about someone else.

Bright Sky helps you to spot the signs of abuse, know how to respond, and help someone find a safe route to support. The app can be downloaded for free via the app stores. Please only download the app if it is safe for you to do so.

It has had over 80,000 downloads since its launch in 2018. The website is focused on how to spot the signs of domestic abuse, advice on how to support someone you have concerns for, and ways to find help. Visit the website below: