Domestic violence: a crime, even behind closed doors
Story 5 of 6
In the UK, violence at home is not a "private family matter". It is a serious crime.
Anyone who is violent towards their partner can be prosecuted, whether the violent person is a man or a woman, and whether the couple are married or living together.
A man who forces a woman to have sex can be charged with rape, and that includes her husband.
If you are suffering domestic violence, the sooner you get help, the better. A solicitor (a type of lawyer) or Citizens Advice can explain your options. Some areas have safe places to stay called refuges or shelters.
There is also a free phone number: the National Domestic Violence Freephone Helpline, on 0808 2000 247. It is open day and night, and if you can't get through, its voicemail lets you leave a message; the helpline has a website too. Another place to look is the website of the charity Women's Aid. And in an emergency, call the police straight away. They can also help you find somewhere safe to stay.
Quiz
Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE?
In the UK, a married man who forces his wife to have sex can be charged with rape.
True. Being married gives nobody the right to force their partner into sex. Under UK law, any man who forces a woman to have sex can be charged with rape, and that includes her husband.
Quiz
Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE?
In the UK, violence towards a partner is only a crime if the couple are married.
False. Married or living together, and whether the violent partner is a man or a woman, anyone who is violent towards a partner can be prosecuted.
