Domestic abuse can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexuality or background. It can have a significant impact on adults, children and families.
Professionals, volunteers and community members all have a role in recognising domestic abuse, responding appropriately and ensuring people receive the support they need.
Concerned About Someone?
If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
If you are concerned that domestic abuse may be affecting a child, young person or adult:
- Follow your organisation's safeguarding procedures.
- Speak to your safeguarding lead or line manager.
- Seek advice if you are unsure what action to take.
- Consider whether a safeguarding referral is required.
Concerns can never be shared too early.
Safeguarding Referral Routes
Information on local safeguarding referral routes, including how to report concerns about a child, young person or adult, is available on our Safeguarding Referral Routes page.
Help, Support and Resources
Berkshire Women's Aid
Provides support, information and advice to people experiencing domestic abuse.
Berkshire Women's Aid
Bracknell Forest Domestic Abuse Services
Information about local support services, safety planning and available help.
Stopping Domestic Abuse
For Professionals
Information about the work of the Bracknell Forest Domestic Abuse Forum, training opportunities and professional resources.
Information for Professionals
Domestic Abuse Resources for Professionals
Domestic Abuse and Suicide Risk Support Toolkit
This toolkit supports professionals to recognise and respond to suicide risk where domestic abuse is a factor. It includes guidance on understanding the links between domestic abuse and suicide, recognising risk factors and accessing appropriate support and referral pathways. (Berkshire, May 2026)
Domestic Abuse and Suicide Risk Support Toolkit (PDF)
Safeguarding Referrals
If you are concerned about a child or young person:
Bracknell Forest Children's Social Care
Additional Information
Understanding Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse is any pattern of behaviour used to control, coerce, threaten or harm another person within an intimate relationship or family setting.
Domestic abuse can include:
- Physical abuse
- Emotional or psychological abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Coercive or controlling behaviour
- Financial or economic abuse
- Threatening or intimidating behaviour
Children who see, hear or experience domestic abuse are victims in their own right and can be significantly affected by the abuse they witness.
Recognising the Signs
Warning signs may include:
- Changes in behaviour or mood
- Withdrawal, anxiety or low self-esteem
- Self-blame
- Unexplained injuries
- Verbal abuse or humiliation
- Fear of outside intervention
- Damage to home or property
- Isolation from friends and family
- Limited access to money or resources
No single sign confirms domestic abuse. It is important to consider the wider circumstances and seek advice where concerns exist.
Key Safeguarding Message
Domestic abuse is everyone's business. Early identification, professional curiosity and timely intervention can make a significant difference to the safety and wellbeing of adults and children affected by abuse.
If you are unsure what action to take, seek safeguarding advice. Concerns can never be shared too early.