First steps

Who did victims and survivors first tell about the abuse, and where did they first hear about support available?

Use our interactive charts below to find out more about your area.

How did victims and survivors first hear about the services available in their area?

We asked victims and survivors where they first found out about domestic abuse services available in their area – this included doing their own research, finding out from friends and family, or being signposted by a professional.

Which professional did victims and survivors first tell about the abuse?

We asked victims and survivors which professional they told first about the abuse they’d experienced. We recognise that victims and survivors will often tell friends and family about the abuse before anyone else, and the important role that they can play in supporting their loved ones. However, here we wanted to know more about which professionals might be the first to be told.