Sexual or Domestic Abuse -

Abuse is not discriminative - it can affect anyone

Everyone deserves to feel safe in their relationships and in their own body. If you or someone you know is dealing with sexual or domestic abuse, it can feel confusing, scary, or isolating — but you’re not alone, and it’s never your fault. This page is here to help you understand what abuse looks like, how to recognise unhealthy behaviours within relationships and where you can find support. Whether you’re looking for information, trying to help a friend, or reaching out for yourself, we’re here to guide you toward safety and support.

This is a subject that is taken very seriously - did you know

Clares Law

The police can release information about any previous history of violence or abuse a person may have. It means they can provide information that helps protect people that could be at risk and prevent further crimes. This is called Clares Law, if you feel this would be of help, click here to find out more

Ask for Angela

If you're at a venue and feel unsafe, vulnerable or threatened you can discreetly ask venue Staff for 'Angela'. This code-phrase will indicate to staff that they require help with their situation and a trained member of staff will then look to support and assist them. This might be through reuniting them with a friend, seeing them to a taxi, or by calling venue security and/or the police.

Unsure what Sexual or Domestic abuse is?

Sexual and domestic abuse can take many forms, and it’s not always easy to recognise. It can include someone pressuring, manipulating, or forcing you into sexual activity you don’t want, or touching you in ways that make you uncomfortable. It can also look like a partner, friend, or family member controlling who you talk to, checking your phone without permission, spreading rumors, threatening you, or using anger to scare you. Abuse isn’t just physical — it can be emotional, digital, or psychological. What all forms of abuse have in common is that they make you feel unsafe, pressured, or powerless, and they are never okay.

If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual or domestic abuse, you don’t have to deal with it on your own. There is always someone in College who will listen and help. You can talk to your SPA, or come to Health and Wellbeing, where someone is always ready to support you. You can also speak to any member of staff you trust — they’re there to help you stay safe and get the support you need. Reaching out is a strong and important step.

Here are some links to organisations that can offer support if you’re experiencing sexual or domestic abuse, or if you’re worried about someone you know. These services are confidential, non-judgemental, and here to help you understand your options and stay safe. You don’t have to face anything on your own.

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