Sue Hunt

Domestic abuse can happen to anyone, irrespective of age, background, religion, sexuality, or ethnicity. Defined by Government as any incident of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence, or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are or have been intimate partners or family members. Statistics show most domestic abuse is carried out by men and experienced by women.

• 1 in 4 women will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime
• 12.6m people in the UK have experienced abuse since the age of 16
• 1 woman a week is killed by a partner or ex-partner
• Domestic abuse makes up over 59% of recorded crime, yet only 6% of cases are prosecuted, and 50% of reported sexual assaults are committed by a partner or ex-partner
• The cost of domestic abuse to the UK economy is estimated to be £84bn per year

These stats are chilling, and indicate a survivor is in each and all our spheres.

Types of abuse are numerous and complex, beyond the obvious physical; psychological, emotional, economic, sexual and tech-based abuse all contribute, and can be prosecuted under a range of offences.

The solution to ending this cycle of abuse is neither simple nor straightforward, but we can help by recognising and raising awareness of the traits and impact of abuse, protect survivors with provision of emotional and practical support, and pursue prevention through enhanced awareness, education, and training.

Passionate about this cause, I have volunteered for domestic abuse charities over 25 years and worked as an adviser on the National Domestic Abuse Helpline gaining key frontline experience, enabling me to provide uniquely specialist training for domestic abuse services, charities and corporations.

Experienced in supporting survivors and understanding their experiences, their specific needs, and rights across the welfare system, housing, civil and family law, criminal law and processes, safeguarding and social support.

I am sharing this expertise, awareness, and support for organisations seeking to:

• Scope and deliver training and awareness programmes
• Understand survivor’s rights from economic abuse to housing and homelessness, civil and criminal law remedies
• Educate professionals, HR, Managers, how to recognise signs of abuse and support survivors
• Provide a safe space for survivors to disclose, and signpost to essential service
• Create a Domestic Abuse policy, integrating into company values

Training can be successfully provided remotely, or in person. Sessions are bespoke, and consultancy provided for policy and project support on an hourly or day rate basis.

Clients include: AXA, ESDAS, Experian, L’Oreal, Refuge, Women’s Aid

Data sources: ONS, CSEW, National Audit Office