🔄 Change the Story

❓ Do you recognise controlling or abusive behaviour in your relationship?

🚫 Domestic abuse is never acceptable. Any form of abusive behaviour can have serious consequences and may result in police action, including arrest and criminal charges.

💚 A healthy relationship is built on mutual respect, trust, honesty and equality. Both partners should feel supported, valued and able to communicate openly without fear.

⚠️ Controlling behaviours are not signs of love or care. Telling your partner where they can go, who they can see, constantly checking up on them, or becoming angry when they do not do what you want are all forms of unhealthy behaviour.

❌ Trying to keep someone in a relationship by controlling them, isolating them from others, or damaging their confidence is abuse.

👶 The Impact on Children

Children who witness domestic abuse are affected, even when they are not directly involved.

They may experience:

🧠 Anxiety, depression and other mental health difficulties.

💔 Low self-esteem and reduced confidence.

⚠️ Self-harm, eating disorders or other harmful coping mechanisms.

🍷 Increased risk of using alcohol or drugs to deal with emotional distress.

Children often learn behaviours from the adults around them. By recognising harmful behaviour and seeking support, you can help create a safer future for yourself and your family.

🌟 Be a positive role model and help #ChangeTheStory.

🚩 What Is Domestic Abuse?

Domestic abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, verbal and financial abuse.

Examples include:

🔸 Threatening or intimidating a partner.

🔸 Name-calling or degrading language.

🔸 Controlling where they go, what they do, or who they speak to.

🔸 Preventing contact with friends, family or support networks.

🔸 Making repeated accusations of cheating.

🔸 Constantly monitoring, tracking or checking up on them.

🔸 Sharing, or threatening to share, intimate images.

🔸 Physical violence such as hitting, punching, kicking or throwing objects.

🔸 Sexual violence or forcing someone into unwanted sexual activity.

🔸 Controlling access to money or demanding financial control.

📱 Domestic abuse can occur whether you live together, live separately, are married, dating or have ended the relationship. Abuse can happen in person or online.

👮 If you are abusive towards someone you are, or have been, in a relationship with, Staffordshire Police will take positive action which may result in arrest and prosecution.

✅ How Can I Change?

Recognising that your behaviour is harmful is the first step towards change.

🤝 There can be many reasons why abusive behaviour develops, but everyone is responsible for the choices they make. Taking responsibility and seeking support can help you build healthier relationships.

📞 Support Available

New Era offers confidential support for people who want to change their behaviour.

📞 0300 373 5772

If you are worried about your own behaviour, or that of a friend or family member, help is available. Support is also available for anyone experiencing domestic abuse.

🔗 Further information:

👉 https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/change-the-story

💬 Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Taking action today can make a positive difference for you, your loved ones and your future. #ChangeTheStory