Sometimes people say things to each other in an argument that are mean and hurtful. But there’s a difference between a normal argument and domestic abuse. Domestic abuse is when a person is trying to control the other person by being repeatedly abusive and sometimes violent towards them.

More information from Childline is available on the link Family problems | Childline

It is not normal to feel scared at home. You have a right to feel safe and adults have the responsibility to protect you. If you feel scared or unsafe at home, maybe because you see violence happening or maybe because someone is hurting you, it’s important that you speak to someone.

If you would like to talk to someone in confidence, you can contact:

Childline - You can call them free on 0800 1111 and this number won’t appear on a telephone bill. Available 24 hours a day.

Home - Scotland's Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline. A Helpline for all women and concerned friends, family and professionals. Freephone 24-Hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 027 1234

You can also contact the police in a non-emergency 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by calling 101.

• In an emergency all the Police on 999.
• Need to call the Police but can't speak - Dial 999, then listen to the questions from the operator, cough or tap the handset if you can, when prompted press 55, this lets the operator know it’s a genuine call and puts you through to the Police.

• Childline
• The Hide Out The Hideout – a website for young people made by young people who have experienced domestic abuse 
• LGBT Youth Scotland | LGBT Youth Scotland
• Clan Childlaw
• Voice Against Violence | Tackling domestic abuse through the voice of the young