Abuse - what it is and what you can do

Find out what counts as 'abuse', how to get help and what happens if you decide to tell someone.

Young people may be hurt or abused by adults or other young people in many ways.
The word 'abuse' is used more and more on the news, in newspapers and magazines, and maybe even on your favourite soap but it doesn't necessarily mean that everyone knows the meaning of the word. Most people think abuse is physical or sexual but there is also emotional abuse and neglect. Some forms of bullying and discrimination are also forms of abuse.
It's OK to find out more about abuse so you can keep yourself safe and find out where you can go for support if you ever need it.

Abuse can be...

• Bullying and Discrimination 
• Cyber-bullying 
• Emotional Abuse 
• Sexual Abuse
• Physical Abuse 
• Neglect 
• Domestic Abuse 

You should never have to suffer abuse - it's never your choice and never your fault.
If something is worrying you or making you scared and you are not sure it's abuse, it's important to talk to someone you trust.

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Last updated: 25 April 2023