The examples do not cover everything. A person may experience more than one type of abuse at the same time.
Domestic abuse
This is when a partner or family member threatens you, hurts you or abuses you.
Domestic abuse advice and support
Forced marriage
This is a type of domestic abuse and happens where one or both people are made to marry without their full consent.
Forced marriage advice and support
Modern slavery
This is when you are held against your will and forced to do something. Examples of what it looks like include:
- forced labour
- exploitation through sex work
- being made to carry out criminal acts
National Crime Agency: Modern slavery and human trafficking
Hate crime (discriminatory abuse)
This is when someone hurts you or makes fun of you because of your disability, culture, sexuality or religion.
Hate crime and hate incidents advice and support
Financial and material abuse
This is when someone takes your money or belongings without your permission. Examples of what it looks like include:
- being pressured or tricked into handing over money or belongings
- someone misusing your assets like spending your money or using your car without permission
- being prevented from accessing your own money or assets
Physical abuse
This is when someone hurts your body on purpose. Examples of what it looks like include:
- hitting, slapping, pushing or kicking
- holding you down or restraining you
Emotional abuse
This is when someone tries to control you, scare you or undermine your confidence. Examples of what it looks like include:
- being nasty, name calling or making threats
- making fun of you or intimidating you
- controlling what you do, who you see and where you go
- isolating you from family, friends and support
Sexual abuse
This is when someone touches you in ways you don’t like or want. Examples of what it looks like include:
- being made to act out sexual behaviour
- sexual acts being forced upon you without your consent
Neglect
This is when people who should help you do not look after you properly. Examples of what it looks like include:
- not giving you enough food or drink
- not giving you your medication
- not helping you to stay clean or manage your personal care
Organisational abuse
This is when abuse or neglect happens in a care setting, such as a care home or hospital. Examples of what it looks like include:
- staff not meeting your care needs
- lack of essential equipment such as hoists
- staff and managers actively harming or threatening you
Self neglect
This is when you cannot or do not want to look after yourself properly. Examples of what it looks like include:
- not looking after your personal hygiene
- hoarding resulting in your health, wellbeing or safety being at risk
Want to know more
Take a look at these easy read guides about abuse and keeping safe.