The European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) conducted a survey in 2014 about violence experienced by women in 28 countries in the EU. Its full findings can be found here, but you can check out the headline stats on violence against women in the UK below:
- 44% of women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence by a partner and/or a non‐partner since the age of 15.
- 28% have experienced physical violence by a partner.
- 10% have experienced sexual violence by a partner, 7% by a non‐partner.
- 46% have undergone some form of psychological violence by either a current or a previous partner.
- 40% have childhood experiences of physical, sexual or psychological violence at the hands of an adult, 18% had experiences of sexual violence.
- 19% have experienced stalking since the age of 15.
- 68% of women have undergone some form of sexual harassment.
- 16% indicating that they contacted the police as a result of the most serious incident of violence by either a partner or a non‐partner since the age of 15.
If you are a woman who has experienced violence or abuse, now or in the past, you can get support or even just a listening ear by contacting the 24 Hour Domestic & Sexual Violence Helpline on 0808 802 1414, by emailing 24hrsupport@dvhelpline.org, or by texting support to 07797 805 839.
Alternatively, you can get in touch with the local Women’s Aid group in your area to avail of a wide range of support services, including emergency refuge accommodation and outreach support.