Today marks 10 years since the coercive control offence was introduced. Over this time, our understanding of abuse has grown — especially this hidden harm rooted in control, fear, and isolation.
Within migrant communities, coercive control often intersects with language barriers, insecure immigration status, financial dependence, faith and social isolation. These realities can make it harder to name abuse and access support. Yet our communities also hold deep strength, wisdom, and care.
We welcome this legislation and the progress it represents. With the government’s new VAWG strategy released just over a week ago, we remain hopeful that the next chapter will centre community-led solutions — where trusted grassroots organisations, culturally informed education, and accessible safeguarding are properly resourced and embedded.
This change cannot happen in isolation. It requires collective action: communities speaking openly, professionals listening and learning, funders investing in by-and-for services, and systems removing barriers that keep migrant survivors silent or unsafe. Together, we can ensure abuse is recognised early, support is accessible, and no one is left to face harm alone.
Coercive control is abuse — and through collective care, accountability, and action, we can build safer communities where migrant survivors are believed, protected, and able to heal.
We’re Here
📧 Email our trained Independent Domestic Violence Advocates:
advice@amourdestine.org.uk
🚨 Feeling unsafe at home or in public? Support is available 24/7:
• Emergency: 999 (if you cannot speak, dial 55)
• National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0800 2000 247
• Karma Nirvana (support for those worried about honour based abuse or forced marriage: 0800 5999 247
• NSPCC (support for children): 0808 800 5000
🤝 Support for male victims (Mankind Initiative):
📞 Helpline: 0808 800 1170 (Freephone) / 01823 334 244 (weekdays 10am–4pm) — confidential support for male victims of domestic abuse across the UK.
💛 You deserve safety, care, and support — today and always.