Domestic violence and family violence often takes place “behind closed doors”. In the past it was seen very much as a “private family matter” that society should not get involved with.

It can be difficult for those who are, or who have experienced violence to come forward because they may feel isolated, ashamed, confused or just too afraid to speak about their experiences.

Sometimes they blame themselves for the violence because they are been told by their partner on many occasions, that they “provoked” it.