Teresa Parker from Women’s Aid said: “Coercive control can mean that you feel as if you are constantly treading on eggshells, that you feel that you have no escape from your partner and are exhausted from the continued abuse.
“There may be the threat of what could happen if you don’t comply, and many women living with coercive control are constantly trying to manage their safety within the relationship.
“Many people don’t realise that coercive control is a criminal offence, and is part of almost all abusive relationships. You don’t have to be hit to be abused.
“However, coercive control can also be accompanied by other forms of abuse, including physical and sexual abuse.”
The Home Affairs Committee released a report this week asking for the Government to create a wide-ranging strategy to tackle domestic violence and protect victims.
The report said: “Without strong action to tackle domestic abuse and support victims during the Covid-19 pandemic, society will be dealing with the devastating consequences for a generation.”
If you are in need of help, call The National Domestic Abuse helpline on 0808 2000 247.
Coronation Street continues tonight, Wednesday, April 29, at 7.30pm on ITV.