Coercive Control
When love becomes control—it’s abuse.
Coercive control is a dangerous and often hidden form of domestic abuse. It isn’t about a single incident. It’s a pattern of behaviour used to dominate, frighten, and isolate a person over time. We’re here to help you recognise the signs, understand your rights, and take back control of your life.
What Is Coercive Control?
Coercive control is when an abuser uses threats, humiliation, manipulation, or intimidation to strip away a person’s freedom. It may look like control over money, relationships, appearance, or access to food, work, or transport.
This abuse can occur in intimate partnerships or within families. It is a crime under UK law, and perpetrators can be prosecuted.
You don’t have to wait for physical violence—coercive control is abuse. And you are not alone.
Recognising the Signs
You may be experiencing coercive control if someone:
- Stops you from seeing friends or family
- Monitors your phone, social media, or daily movements
- Controls what you wear, where you go, or when you sleep
- Puts you down constantly or tells you you’re worthless
- Controls all the money and gives you little or no access
- Prevents you from working, studying, or using transport
- Forces you to take part in criminal activities
- Threatens to harm you, your children, or your pets
- Threatens to share private images or personal information
- Forces or coerces you into sex or unwanted acts
“It didn’t start with hitting—it started with ‘checking in’, then isolating me from friends. By the time I realised I was trapped, I didn’t know how to leave. That’s when I reached out for help.”
— Amina, Survivor
Case Study: Rachel’s Story
Rachel* was referred to us after being denied access to her own wages, phone, and friends. Her partner monitored her messages, restricted her movements, and punished her for “disobedience” by withholding food.
We supported Rachel to:
✅ Safely access legal advice
✅ Reclaim financial control
✅ Access emergency accommodation
✅ Begin trauma-informed counselling
Today, Rachel lives independently and helps raise awareness about coercive control in her local community.
*Name changed for privacy.
How We Can Help
We provide confidential, non-judgmental support to help you:
- Identify and understand coercive behaviour
- Create a personalised safety plan
- Access legal advice and protection orders
- Secure emergency housing if needed
- Rebuild confidence through counselling and peer support
No one deserves to feel powerless in their own life. You have the right to safety and freedom.
Reach Out – You’re Not Alone
Whether you’re still in the relationship or have already left, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Call us confidentially at 0750 761 4843
Live chat with a trained advisor
Email us at rosa@gmail.com
Coercive control is abuse. And there is a way out.