Learn about coercive control - a special episode of the Neighbourhood Watch podcast with Ruth Dodsworth OBE
Families affected by domestic abuse often live with it for a long time before getting help. On average, people assessed as high risk experience it for nearly two and a half years before receiving support. It is vital that we understand why leaving or speaking out can be so difficult, so that we can support vulnerable people more effectively.
To many people, Ruth Dodsworth appeared to have it all: a successful television career, a loving family and a long-term relationship. But behind the scenes, she was living what she later described as a "double life". It took years for Ruth to recognise the abuse she was experiencing and to find a way out.
In 2019, her former husband, Jonathan Wignall, was jailed for coercive and controlling behaviour and stalking. Since then, Ruth has become a powerful advocate for victims and survivors of domestic abuse, receiving an OBE in 2025 for her services to the cause.
We are incredibly grateful to Ruth for sharing her story on our podcast. It is a sensitive and, at times, challenging conversation, but it is also insightful, powerful and ultimately hopeful. By listening, you'll gain a deeper understanding of coercive control, why people can become trapped in abusive relationships, and what support can make a difference.
You do not need to wait until a situation becomes an emergency to seek help. If you are experiencing domestic abuse, tell someone you trust, such as your GP, a friend, family member or support organisation.
You can find information about domestic abuse and available support services on GOV.UK.
Other sources of support
Women: The National Domestic Abuse Helpline (run by Refuge) is available 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247.
Women: Email helpline@womensaid.org.uk for confidential support.
Men: Contact the Men's Advice Line on 0808 8010 327 or access its online webchat service.
Men: Call ManKind on 01823 334244.
LGBT+ people: Contact Galop on 0800 999 5428 or email help@galop.org.uk.
Forced marriage or so-called honour-based abuse: Contact Karma Nirvana on 0800 5999 247 or the Forced Marriage Unit on 020 7008 0151.
Some pharmacies and banks provide safe spaces in their consultation rooms for people experiencing domestic abuse. Find out about Safe Space locations near you.
Coercive control is defined as "an intentional pattern of behaviour which takes place over time, in order for one individual to exert power, control or coercion over another" (Home Office, 2023).
Domestic abuse is not always physical. Coercive control can create an invisible prison of fear, isolation and dependency that affects every aspect of a person's life. It restricts freedom, undermines confidence and can make it extremely difficult to leave.
You are receiving this message because you are registered on Neighbourhood Alert. Various organisations are licensed to send messages via this system, we call these organisations "Information Providers". Please note that this message was sent by Neighbourhood Watch and that Neighbourhood Watch does not necessarily represent the views of Neighbourhood Alert or other Information Providers who may send you messages via this system.
You can instantly review the messages you receive and configure which Information Providers can see your information by clicking here, or you can unsubscribe completely, (you can also review our terms and conditions and Privacy Policy from these links). Alternatively, please email unsubscribe@neighbourhoodalert.co.uk and our team will action your request manually within ten working days.
This email communication makes use of a "Clear Image"(gif) to track results of the email campaign. If you wish to turn off this tracking for future emails, you can do so by not downloading the images in the e-mail itself. All links in the body of this email are shortened to allow click through monitoring.
VISAV Limited is the company which built and owns the Neighbourhood Alert platform that powers this system. VISAV's authorised staff can see your data and is registered with the Information Commissioner's Office as the national Data Controller for the entire database. VISAV needs to see your data in order to be able to manage the system and provide support; it cannot use it for commercial or promotional purposes unless you specifically opt-in to Membership benefits. Review the website terms.
