Recognise the signs
Domestic abuse doesn't have a gender. Both males and females can be abusive, and can also be found in same-sex relationships.
Facing up to a problem is the hardest part of the process of changing for the better. Once you're able to accept that your behaviour is abusive and requires improvement, support is available to help you make a positive change.
Questions to ask yourself
You should ask yourself these questions to work out if you're abusing someone:
- Do you shout at your partner or ex-partner?
- Do you emotionally harm your partner, or say things you later regret?
- Do you act violently or aggressively towards your partner?
- Do you smash things up?
- Do you show no respect to your partner?
- Do you have a problem with jealousy?
- Are you worried your abusive behaviour is getting worse?
- Are you concerned your children are regularly witnessing arguments?
If the answer to any of the above questions is "yes", it's likely that you're abusing your partner or ex-partner.
Support available to you
If you're hurting someone you love, help and support are available to you.
Do you need immediate help?
- Call 999 in an emergency - if you can't talk on the call, try coughing or tapping the phone. If the operator asks you if you're in danger, press 55.
- If it's not an emergency, call Greater Manchester Police on 101 - the switchboard is open 24 hours a day.
How to get support
There is now a single point of access for all domestic abuse services across the borough of Rochdale including:
- One-to-one support
- Group-work
- Safe accommodation.
If you need support:
- Phone 0161 507 9609
- Email rochdale@victimsupport.org.uk
Find more support
- Turning the Spotlight - a 12-week healthy relationship programme run by Rochdale Victim Support. You can join the programme if you're male, aged over 18, live in the borough of Rochdale and have had problems in your relationship that lead to arguments, conflict or violence.
- Call the Respect Phoneline - a national, confidential and anonymous helpline for anyone concerned about their violence or abuse towards a partner or ex-partner.
- LGBT Foundation - offers support groups and advice for people living in Greater Manchester involved in domestic abuse.