IYSS - Abuse

Abuse

Many of us think of abuse as either physical or sexual but there is also emotional abuse and neglect.

What are the differences?

Physical - this could include being kicked, beaten or punched.

Sexual - this is when you are touched in a way you don't like or are forced to have sex against your will. It is also classed as sexual abuse if you are forced to look at pictures or videos that make you feel embarrassed or uncomfortable.

Emotional - this includes things like name-calling, being made fun of or being threatened. It can also include having to witness acts of violence between people that you care for.

Neglect - this is when you don't have enough to eat or drink, don't have clothes to keep you warm or don't even have clean clothes. It is also neglect if you are left alone for long periods of time without an adult to take care of you, or if you are left in charge of younger children.

If you are the victim of abuse help is available. In an emergency situation call the police free on 999 or textphone 18000. You can call your local police station (the number will be in your local phone book under "police") and ask to speak to a "child protection police officer".

Useful Contacts

www.childline.org.uk (telephone 0800 1111)

www.thinkuknow.co.uk (a helpline for people experiencing online abuse or cyberbullying)