Types and indicators of abuse

Signs of abuse can often be difficult to detect. This page aims to help people who come into contact with people with care and support needs to identify abuse and recognise possible indicators. Many forms of abuse are also criminal offences and should be treated that way.

What are the ten different types of abuse?

The Care and support statutory guidance identifies ten types of abuse, these are:

Different forms of abuse and the signs

Evidence of any one indicator from the following lists should not be taken on its own as proof that abuse is occurring. However, it should alert practitioners to make further assessments and to consider other associated factors. The lists of possible indicators and examples of behaviour are not exhaustive and people may be subject to a number of abuse types at the same time.

Types of physical abuse

Signs and indicators

Types of domestic violence or abuse

Domestic violence or abuse can be characterised by any of the indicators of abuse outlined in this briefing relating to:

See guidance about:

Signs and indicators

Domestic violence and abuse includes any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are or have been, intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality. It also includes so called ‘honour’ -based violence, female genital mutilation and forced marriage.

Coercive or controlling behaviour is a core part of domestic violence. Coercive behaviour can include:

Types of sexual abuse

Signs and indicators

Types of psychological or emotional abuse

Signs and indicators

Types of financial or material abuse

Signs and indicators

Types of modern slavery