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What is Abuse?

• Abuse is any behaviour that is used to gain and/or maintain power and control over another person.

• Abuse is never the fault of the victim.

• Nobody deserves abuse

• An abusive partner does not necessarily behave in an abusive way all the time.

• Someone who abuses their partner may love them, but does not know how to treat them with respect.

• You do not have to leave your relationship, stay at the Shelter or make a police report to use our free and confidential counselling and support services.

• Abusers rarely stop abusing on their own, and you cannot change the behaviour of another person. You can only change what you choose to do for yourself.

• Abuse is not just physical violence. There are many types of abuse, including emotional, sexual and financial abuse.

If you think you are being abused, or have been abused in the past, talking to a counsellor at the Shelter can help.

The Shelter offers phone counselling, one-on-one counselling sessions (either at the Shelter or in a safe place in the community), and support groups.

All services are safe, free of charge and confidential.