Today's episode, host Jennie brings two worlds together that wouldn't normally be associated; novel writing and the realities of domestic abuse and coercive control. #1 best selling author Sarah Pearse (The Retreat, Sanatorium and The Wilds) and Sarah Berry-Valentine from Refuge Charity (domestic violence safe haven), came together to develop some of the characters in Sarah's latest novel, 'The Wilds' and the toxic and abusive relationship dynamics between them. Refuge supported Sarah to ensure that the behaviours, psychology and tactics associated with partners and parents who practice coercive control abuse was accurately depicted.

• 1 in 4 women will experience domestic violence in their lifetime
• 2 women are killed every week by a partner in England/Wales
• Every 30 seconds, the police are called to a domestic abuse situation

Unsure if you or someone you love are in an abusive situation? Here are the SIGNS:

Types of domestic abuse:

• Psychological/emotional abuse: Includes name-calling, threats and manipulation, blaming you for the abuse or ‘gaslighting’ you.
• Coercive control: When an abuser uses a pattern of behaviour over time to exert power and control. It is a criminal offence.
• Physical abuse: This isn’t only hitting. He might restrain you or throw objects. He might pinch or shove you and claim it’s a ‘joke’.
• Tech abuse: He might send abusive texts, demand access to your devices, track you with spyware, or share images of you online.
• Economic abuse: Controlling your access to money or resources. He might take your wages, stop you working, or put you in debt without your knowledge or consent
• Sexual abuse: This doesn’t have to be physical. He might manipulate, deceive or coerce you into doing things you don’t want to do.

Here's a list of questions to help you begin to spot the signs of an abusive partner:

Is your partner jealous and possessive?

Is he charming one minute and abusive the next?

Does he tell you what to wear, where to go, who to see?

Does he constantly put you down?

Does he play mind games and make you doubt your judgement?

Does he control your money, or make sure you are dependent on him for everyday things?

Does he pressure you to have sex when you don’t want to?

Are you starting to walk on eggshells to avoid making him angry?

Does he control your access to medicine, devices or care that you need?

Does he monitor or track your movements or messages?

Does he use anger and intimidation to frighten and control you?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, then you may be experiencing domestic abuse.

You can learn more about author Sarah Pearse here: The Retreat – By Sarah Pearse – Order Now

You can learn more about Refuge Charity and seek help here: Refuge, the largest UK domestic abuse organisation for women

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