When people think about domestic abuse, they often picture physical or emotional harm. But financial abuse is another serious issue that can leave you feeling trapped, powerless, and unable to make your own choices. However, this situation can change for the better and we can help you.
Knowing the signs of financial abuse is the first step to taking back control. Here are 10 warning signs that could mean you’re experiencing financial abuse.
Note: This is Part 1 of our 3 Part series. You can check our blog directory to see Parts 2 and 3 which will be published in the following weeks: https://junowomensaid.org.uk/category/junos-blog/
Ten Red Flags
1. You’re Not Allowed to Access Money
Does your partner or family member control all the money? If they stop you from having your own bank account, cash, or opinion around spending, this could be financial abuse.
2. You’re Kept in the Dark About Finances
Do they hide bank statements, bills, or financial details from you? If you’re not allowed to know about household money, they may be trying to keep you dependent.
3. You’re Forced to Rely on Them for Money
Some abusers make sure you have no financial independence. They might stop you from working, ruin your job chances, or refuse to let you have a bank card in your name.
4. Money Goes Missing or is Spent Without Your Knowledge
Have you noticed strange withdrawals or spending you didn’t agree to? If they’re secretly using your money or opening accounts in your name, it’s a big red flag.
5. They Stop You from Working or Studying
Abusers sometimes try to control you by keeping you from having a job or furthering your education. If they make it hard for you to earn your own money or improve your education, it could be a way to trap you.
6. You’re Not Allowed Your Own Bank Account
Abusers may have negative motivations if they don’t let you open or access a bank account on your own. What they’re doing is making it harder for you to manage your money and get help if you need it.
7. You’re Forced to Sign Financial Documents
If you feel pressured into signing loans, contracts, or other financial agreements without understanding them, this is a major warning sign.
8. They Build Up Debt in Your Name
Some abusers take out loans or rack up debt in your name, leaving you to deal with the financial mess. This can damage your credit score and make it difficult to become independent.
9. Your Financial Situation Changes Suddenly
Have bank accounts been closed, money disappeared, or spending patterns changed suddenly? These could be signs of financial control.
10. They Use Money to Threaten You
If they threaten to take away money, ruin your credit, or create financial problems if you try to leave, they’re using money as a tool to control you.
What to Do if You Recognise These Signs
Spotting these warning signs is the first step. If you think you’re facing financial abuse, here are some things you can do:
• Keep a Record: Write down important financial details and the dates where you felt controlled over money, what was said, and what the outcome was.
• Get Support: Talk to someone you trust, a counsellor, or a support group. Organisations like Juno can offer advice and help.
• Learn About Money Management: Understanding finances can help you regain control. Look on YouTube for videos on any subject, such as understanding credit or understanding mortgages.
• Plan for Safety: If you feel unsafe, think about steps you can take to protect yourself financially if you need to leave.
Summary
Make yourself aware of red flags around money and finances. Keeping a record of them will help you see the reality of the situation more clearly. Share what’s happening to you with our helpline through email or calling. Financial abuse can be part of a pattern of overall abuse, for example, it could be accompanied by emotional abuse. But it could just exist by itself and it is still abuse. And you deserve better. You really do.
Final Thoughts
You deserve to have control over your own finances. If you’re in this situation, know that help is available, and you’re not alone. Our helpline is here whenever you need to talk. Many of our team members have been through similar experiences and are ready to listen, support, and help in any way they can—without judgement or pressure.
Reach out when you’re ready or have a read of this blog, which details who the women are that pick up the phone when you call.
Juno Help
Calls to our helpline are free from landlines and mobile phones within the UK and do not appear on itemised bills. There is no pressure and everything is confidential.
Helpline: 0808 800 0340
Sometimes our helpline is busy and you might not get through the first time, so please try again. We will always call you back if you leave a message stating it is safe to do so and if you leave us a safe contact number in your message.
If you are hearing impaired, text “Relay/NGT” to 18001 0808 800 0340. This option is available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year.
You can also email us on [email protected] 9 am – 9 pm.
Please note, we may not be able to respond to emails straight away, but will try to reply within 24 hours.
National Help
If you’re further afield, you could contact other charities like Women’s Aid, who have instant messaging and email contact on their website: https://www.womensaid.org.uk/
The National Domestic Abuse Helpline (0808 2000 247) also provide confidential support. They can help you make a safety plan, find safe housing, and access legal protections.
The deaf health charity Signhealth also runs a domestic abuse support service, DeafHope, using British Sign Language (BSL).
The Survivor’s Trust (for sexual abuse and assault support) – www.thesurvivorstrust.org