Whilst 1 in 4 women in the UK will experience domestic abuse at some point in their lives, 1 in 6 have experienced financial abuse. Here we discuss what financial abuse is.
Examples of financial abuse:
Coerced debt– taking out credit cards or loans to purchase bigger items. You could be told ‘You have a better credit rating than me, let’s put this in your name’ but that also means you’re responsible for repayments.
No control over bank accounts– the abuser may hold all the bank accounts and you have to ask for money to purchase essentials. Often you’re not given enough money to cover everything so you have to choose between basic necessities.
Being made to give up work– or work for free. The abuser may make working so difficult that it’s easier to give it up, they may sabotage job interviews to stop you progressing at work. The abuser may encourage you to give up work entirely so you can look after the children. This behaviour is intended to control and isolate you and make you dependent on them.
Using credit cards without permission– buying items for themselves but the debt is in your name and you are required to repay the debt.
Putting bills in your name– as above- racking up bills in your name which you’re then required to pay back.
Taking money from joint accounts without permission– or emptying it completely leaving you with nothing to pay bills and expenses with.
Cancelling insurance – cancelling home insurance or car insurance without your knowledge or consent, leaving you vulnerable if something went wrong.
Weaponising money– saying that they’ll ruin your credit rating or won’t pay child support if you leave or refuse to do something.
Withholding child support– the abuser may tell you they’re unable to pay their child support payments or may hide their income to make it look like they’re earning less. All of this is designed to exert power.
The above examples are not only stressful but can prevent you from leaving the abuser. The above are all forms of abuse and if you’re experiencing these you can get help.
If you have experienced financial abuse and need help with debts, always seek guidance from a qualified debt advisor such as:
• StepChange
• National Debtline
• Citizens Advice
If you’re experiencing abuse of any kind, you can speak to us.
Call us on 0808 2800 999
Open Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4:30pm (closed for half an hour lunch at 1pm)
Our One Front Door helpline is completely free and confidential, and the call will not show up on itemised bills.
If you require help outside of these hours, please call The National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247.