Domestic abuse: How to get help and recognise the signs as victim shares horrific injuries

There are many indicators to look for that a partner or ex may be subjecting you to domestic abuse.

Harriet Sinclair
·Deputy News Editor
Updated ·5 min read
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There are a number of resources online for people worried they're the victims of domestic abuse. (Getty, picture posed by model)
There are a number of resources online for people worried they're the victims of domestic abuse. (Getty, picture posed by model)

WARNING: Article contains graphic images

A woman who was so brutally attacked by her partner she was left with a brain injury has shared pictures of her face following the horrific attack – in hopes of encouraging other women in violent relationships to seek help.

The woman, from Blackpool, Lancashire, suffered a broken eye socket, broken jaw and had her teeth knocked out by her partner Karl Machin, 44, who recorded the attack on his mobile phone and has been jailed for seven years and two months over the assault.

"Although I received significant physical injuries the emotional and psychological damage to me has been just as horrific," said the woman, who did not want to be named but asked Lancashire Police to share a picture of her taken in the aftermath of the attack to help others in abusive relationships.

"The trauma and psychological distress this has caused me is immeasurable. I suffer with flashbacks, nightmares. I also am experiencing trauma responses and triggering such as hyper vigilance. hyper-arousal, anxiety and very distressing panic attacks. I am nervous in big crowds and do not like being in enclosed spaces especially with men around."

Detective Jo Clement has praised the woman for coming forward and said she hopes it encourages other woman who may be in violent relationships to speak up.

A woman shared pictures after she suffered horrific domestic abuse at the hands of Karl Machin (right).
A woman shared pictures after she suffered horrific domestic abuse at the hands of Karl Machin (right).

She said: "Karl Machin subjected his victim to a brutal, severe and life-changing assault which left her not only with horrific injuries but with lasting psychological damage too.

"I hope her bravery will give other women who may be in violent or abusive relationships the confidence to come forward and report it to police safe in the knowledge we will investigate professionally and sensitively and that we will seek to put offenders before the courts and get justice for victims," she added.

What support is available?

Victims of domestic abuse can find information on where to seek help on the gov.uk website. Support includes guidance on recognising what domestic abuse may look like, helplines and how to access safe spaces.

According to gov.uk, recognising domestic abuse includes looking for indicators that your partner, ex-partner or someone you live with:

  • cuts you off from family and friends and intentionally isolate you?

  • bullies, threatens, or controls you?

  • takes control of your finances?

  • monitors or limits your use of technology?

  • physically and/or sexually abuses you?

Domestic abuse is not always physical violence. It can also include:

  • coercive control and ‘gaslighting’

  • economic abuse

  • online abuse

  • threats and intimidation

  • emotional abuse

  • sexual abuse

If you are concerned you may be experiencing domestic abuse, you can contact Refuge's National Domestic Abuse Helpline in England on 0808 2000 247; the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline in Northern Ireland on 0808 802 1414; the Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline in Scotland on 0800 027 1234; and Live Fear Free in Wales on 0808 80 10 800.

There is also a dedicated service for male victims of domestic abuse: The Men's Advice Line run by Respect on 0808 801 032.

Domestic abuse - Support, guidance and resources from Yahoo UK

Additionally, there is an app – the Bright Sky app – for those experiencing domestic abuse. However, victims are encouraged only to download the app if they are sure their phone is secure and cannot be accessed by a perpetrator.

The charity Women's Aid also has a directory that details which support is available for victims of domestic violence in your area, while those people in need of immediate support in a domestic violence situation can go into participating pharmacies and job centres can ask for ANI (Action Needed Immediately), which will see you offered a private space, a phone and offered support from police if needed.

How can I support other people?

According to give.uk, if you are worried that a friend, neighbour or loved one is a victim of domestic abuse, you can call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline for free and confidential advice, 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247.

The charity Women's Aid advises people to listen and support those who disclose they are experiencing domestic abuse.

"It takes a lot of strength to talk about experiencing abuse, especially when many women are disbelieved or dismissed when they share their experience," the charity explained.

"When someone reaches out to you, acknowledge that, although she is in a frightening and difficult situation, she is taking an important and brave step forward in reaching out to you.

"For friends and family, it can be really challenging supporting someone who is experiencing domestic abuse but the most important thing you can do for them is to provide emotional support. Listen to them and believe them. Let them express their feelings to you and give them time and space to come to terms with the abuse."