Statistics

Domestic abuse is a misuse of power within relationships. Within our society men continue to hold far more power than women and this disparity can allow for women to be viewed as having less rights than men within a relationship. 

Many people still believe that domestic abuse is caused by stress, drugs, alcohol and poverty. These can be contributory factors but they are not the root cause. Women's Aid has supported women from all social and financial backgrounds and continues to do so.

• 1:4 women will experience domestic abuse at some point in their lives
• 2 women per week are murdered by a partner or ex-partner (Department of Health, 2005)  
• Women who are living with domestic abuse are 5 times more likely to suffer from depression (Department of Health)
• In 90% of incidents of domestic abuse, where children are present in the home, the children will be in the same or the next room
• On average a woman will be assaulted 35 times before reporting it to the police
• 30% of domestic abuse either starts or escalates during pregnancy
• Domestic abuse accounts for between 16% and 25% of all recorded crime (Home Office, 2004)

Many women who are or have experienced domestic abuse blame themselves for what is happening to them. It is not their fault. The only person to blame is the person carrying out the abuse. It is their CHOICE to behave in this way. 

Please see Women's Aid Statistics