Different types of abuse

What is abuse?

  • Abuse is when someone hurts you, treats you badly, or makes you feel scared. It can happen to anyone and is never okay. There are different types of abuse. We will talk about some examples of abuse on this page. If you think you or someone you know is being abused, it is important to tell someone you trust. View this information in another language.

Types of abuse

There are different types of abuse. Some examples include:

  • Physical abuse. Like hurting your body, hitting, or pushing.
  • Emotional abuse. Like saying mean things or making you feel bad about yourself.
  • Sexual abuse. Like touching you in ways you don’t like or without your permission.
  • Financial abuse. Like taking your money or things without asking.
  • Neglect: Like not giving you the care, food, or help that you need.
  • Organisational abuse. Like ignoring someone’s needs or wishes.
  • Domestic abuse. Like hurting or controlling someone you are in a relationship with.

Reporting a concern about abuse

Reporting your concerns may help protect an adult at risk from further abuse. It could ultimately save their life. To report abuse, call our Safeguarding Adults team.

For more information, see our safeguarding page.

Victims of abuse

Some people may not recognise that they are being abused. Adults most at risk of abuse are individuals aged 18 years and over who may be unable to:

  • protect themselves against abuse, harm, or exploitation.
  • speak out for themselves.
  • take care of themselves.

It is important to note that abuse can:

  • consist of a single act or repeated acts.
  • be intentional, unintentional, or due to a lack of knowledge.
  • be an act of neglect, an omission, or a failure to act.
  • cause harm temporarily or over a period of time.
  • occur in any relationship.
  • be perpetrated by anyone, alone or as part of a group.
  • often constitute a crime, i.e. physical, sexual, or emotional abuse.
  • Adults living with other family members who depend on them.

Types of abusers

Abuse can occur anywhere and be perpetrated by anyone. Adults at risk of abuse are sometimes abused by strangers. More often, they are abused by someone known to them or in a position of trust. This may include:

  • A partner, relative, friend, or child.
  • A neighbour or someone from the community network.
  • A paid carer or a volunteer.
  • A health, social care worker or other professional.
  • Another vulnerable adult.
  • A non-carer or a stranger.
  • A friend or family member with a history of violent behaviour. They might have an alcohol problem, or mental illness.

Patterns of abuse

  • Serial abuse. Where the abuser seeks out or 'grooms' vulnerable, at-risk people. Sexual abuse often falls into this pattern, as do some forms of financial abuse.
  • Long-term abuse. In an ongoing family relationship. Such as domestic violence between partners.
  • Opportunistic abuse. Such as theft occurring because money or goods have been left around.
  • Situational abuse. Where pressures have built up in coping with a person's difficult behaviour.

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