Domestic and relationship abuse

• When people think of abusive behaviour, they often think about physical violence. Abusive behaviour can however take many forms, commonly involving some form of control. This might be emotional abuse such as constantly criticising you, making you feel that you are worthless or that everything is your fault. It might be making it hard for you to see friends or family, controlling your money or your phone, tellling you what you can or can't wear or forcing you to have sex when you don't want to. It can occur from a partner or from a family member such as a parent.
• If any of this sounds like it might be happening to you, or you are afraid of someone at home, speak to a GP or nurse. The staff at Student Health are trained about domestic and relationship abuse and specialist workers are available to support you. Everything you tell us will be confidential unless we think you or someone else is at risk.
• Your practice is what is called an ‘IRIS’ practice which means we can help you access some support if you would like to. You can also contact Next Link and ask to speak to the IRIS worker here: https://nextlinkhousing.co.uk/
• You may also have witnessed domestic abuse in your own family growing up. If you would like to, please speak to a GP as we can help you find support. You can read stories of young people who have experienced abuse themselves or in their families on The Mix here

Help after rape and sexual assault

• If you have experienced rape or sexual assault or sexual abuse recently or some time ago, please call The Bridge confidentially on 0117 3426999 or take a look at the website here.
• We can talk about the options of support available to you and listen to what your wishes are.