Why We Need to Talk About Domestic Abuse: Breaking the Taboo

Written By Fiona Bool

Domestic abuse touches far more lives than most people realise, yet it’s still a subject many shy away from. It’s uncomfortable. It’s messy. But staying silent comes at a cost. For survivors, silence often feels like another form of control - a barrier to finding help, hope and healing. For society, it allows damaging myths to persist, leaving survivors isolated and unsupported. 

At The Dandelion Project, we’re here to change that. We’re here to talk, to move and to create a space where silence doesn’t protect abuse, and survivors feel seen, heard and empowered. 

Domestic Abuse: More Than Meets the Eye

Domestic abuse isn’t just bruises or black eyes. It’s control over finances, threats to your children, constant put-downs, or monitoring who you talk to and where you go. It’s emotional manipulation, coercive control, and sometimes, the slow erosion of who you are. 

One in four women in the UK will experience domestic abuse during their lifetime. If you’re working in this sector, you’ll already know that statistic. But behind it are real people - women, children and men - living in fear, and feeling they have nowhere to turn. 

For survivors, these experiences don’t end when the abuse stops. The journey to recovery is long and complex, often shaped by how we, as a society, respond. 

Why is Domestic Abuse Still Taboo?

Let’s be honest - domestic abuse isn’t something people find easy to talk about. There’s still a lingering sense of shame attached to it, and survivors are often met with the wrong questions:

Why didn’t you leave? Why didn’t you tell someone sooner?

These questions shift blame and keep survivors in the shadows. 

For those working in the sector, we know the challenge is getting people to understand that abuse isn’t just a “domestic issue” - it’s a societal issue. It’s about power, control, and a system that too often fails to protect the most vulnerable. 

What Silence Costs Survivors

For survivors, silence can feel like another weight to carry. It stops them from seeking help, sharing their stories, or even believing they deserve better. It allows shame to take root, leaving them trapped in cycles of self-doubt. 

At The Dandelion Project, we see the difference that being heard can make. Survivors don’t need pity - they need empowerment. Through movement, dance and community, we help women find their strength again. It’s not just about recovery; it’s about rebuilding confidence, trust and a sense of self. 

How We Can Break the Silence

Whether you’re a professional in the domestic abuse sector, a policymaker, or a survivor yourself, breaking the silence starts with action. Here’s how we can begin: 

  1. Start Conversations

    Challenge the idea that domestic abuse is a private matter. Share stories, facts and resources that bring the issue out of the shadows

  2. Create Safe Spaces

    Survivors need environments where they can speak without fear of judgment. This is at the heart of what we do at The Dandelion Project

  3. Support Education and Awareness

    Invest in programmes that not only support survivors but also educate communities about recognising abuse and responding appropriately. 

A Message for Survivors

If you've experienced domestic abuse, you don’t have to stay silent. Your story matters. Your healing matters. We’re here to help you rebuild- not just your confidence, but your life. 

Through trauma-informed movement and dance we’ve seen women transform pain into strength. You are not defined by what’s happened to you. You are defined by what you do next. 

Support Our Mission

If you’re a professional working in this space, let’s collaborate. If you’re a survivor, know our door is always open. Together, we can break the silence and create lasting change. 

Call to Action:

  • Explore our Survivor Steps programme and see how movement can be part of the healing process. www.thedandelionproject.co.uk

  • Follow us across socials for updates, stories and resources.

  • Share this article to help raise awareness 


Support Services for Survivors

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, there are people and organisations ready to help: 

National Domestic Abuse Helpline (UK)

Refuge

Women’s Aid

Galop (Support for LGBTQ+ Survivors)

  • National helpline for LGBTQ+ individuals experiencing abuse

  • Call: 0800 999 5428

  • www.galop.org.uk

Next Chapter (Essex)

RESPECT Men’s Advice Line

Fiona Bool