THOSE who engage in “insidious” controlling or coercive behaviour in their relationships could face up to five years in prison, Surrey’s Police and Crime Commissioner has warned.
Speaking out during Domestic Abuse Awareness Week, Lisa Townsend said acts like controlling a partner’s finances, isolating them from their friends and family or threatening and intimidating them are criminal offences.
Reducing violence against women and girls is a key priority in Lisa’s Police and Crime Plan. Her office provides funding for local services that support survivors of abuse, that included securing £2m this spring to establish a dedicated Domestic Abuse Hub with partners in Surrey.
Lisa said: “Those who engage in controlling or coercive behaviours are more likely to go on to commit further abusive offences, that escalate in regularity and seriousness with time.
“It may begin with something that seems small, but will build to a pattern of abuse designed to make a victim dependant on their partner.
“I would encourage anyone who recognises the signs of coercive or controlling behaviour to speak to police or contact the dedicated domestic abuse services in Surrey. Our officers will always take these reports with the utmost seriousness.”
Access confidential advice and support from Surrey’s specialist domestic abuse services by contacting the Your Sanctuary helpline on 01483 776822 (9am-9pm every day), at yoursanctuary.org.uk or using the Healthy Surrey website.
