Where coercive control meets the law
An insidious form of domestic abuse
Coercive control is a pattern of behaviour where one person dominates another through fear, isolation and control over everyday life. It often looks like love or care, which is why it is so easily missed.
This site explains what it looks like and how the law in England and Wales responds, with a focus on people who are vulnerable because of age, disability or illness.
The law has powerful tools to respond to coercive and controlling behaviour, but too few people, including social care, health care and legal professionals, know what they are or when they apply. That’s the gap this website hopes to fill.
Who this site is for
People who think something is wrong in their own life and are looking for words for it
Family and friends who are worried about someone and want to know what they can do
Social workers, nurses, doctors and other professionals who may be the first to notice
Lawyers, students and anyone who wants to understand how the law responds
Navigating the website
In the what section, explore what coercive control is, its drip effect, and some myths and misconceptions.
The who section explains who the victims and survivors of coercive control can be.
The how section explains six common behaviours that are coercive or controlling. These are also called perpetrator tactics.
The law section explains those areas of law that are most concerned with coercive control. These include the criminal law, mental capacity law, the inherent jurisdiction, family law, and inquests.
Under Need help? you can find organisations and helplines, and some tips about how to support someone you think may be a victim of coercive control.
You can read about me on the about page, and about my book on The book page.