A Bangor animator has released a short film to warn young people about the dangers of controlling relationships.
"Coercive Control – where is the line?" by Bob Price, who runs Neep Pictures out of Boom! Studios in Bangor, is aimed at young people aged 14 plus, explaining coercive control and how to recognise it.
The animation is available to view on Ards and North Down Borough Council’s YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/DmbTqFH4x0w
In January this year, the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Bill passed its final stage in the Northern Ireland Assembly. This bill recognises coercive control as a criminal offence and will bring Northern Ireland in line with legislation in England, Scotland and Wales.
The animation was commissioned by Ards and North Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership and supported by Ards North Down Borough council, North Down and Ards Women’s Aid and the South Eastern Sexual and Domestic Violence Partnership.
Mayor of Ards and North Down Councillor Trevor Cummings said: "Coercive control is at the core of all ongoing abuse, but it can be hard to spot. It is hoped that this animation will be shared far and wide to raise awareness about coercive control and to help potential victims spot the warning signs early.
"Now that coercive control is an offence in Northern Ireland, public awareness and education is key to help people spot the signs. This video explains coercive control very clearly and will be used as an important educational tool, especially for young people. I’d like to commend our PCSP and Community Arts Teams for their work on this project."
If you or anyone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please reach out for support by contacting one of the following services:
The Domestic and Sexual Abuse helpline is open to women and men affected by domestic abuse or violence. This free telephone service is Phone: 0808 802 1414 (Freephone) or Email: help@dsahelpline.org or visit dsahelpline.org, or search DSA Helpline on Twitter or Facebook.
Young people can also call ChildLine, a free 24-hour helpline for children in danger or distress, on 0800 1111.
