Domestic abuse and domestic violence often suggest physical harm, yet these terms encompass a far deeper and more insidious element: coercive control. Coercive control is not just an added layer to abusive relationships but rather the foundation upon which all forms of domestic abuse and violence rest. It involves patterns of behaviours that are used to dominate, restrict, and manipulate the other person’s independence, self-esteem, and freedom. Without coercive control, abuse would not serve the abuser’s ultimate purpose of maintaining power over their partner.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here’s why coercive control is inseparable from

domestic abuse and violence

and why I would argue is present in 100% of domestic

abuse/violence cases:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. Abuse is Rooted in Power and Control

 

 

 

 

 

   Domestic abuse is not just about one-off incidents or isolated acts of violence; it is a pattern of behaviour designed to establish and maintain power over another person. Physical violence, intimidation, financial abuse, and even isolation tactics all serve as tools in this quest for control. Without coercive control, these abusive tactics would lack their primary purpose: to instil fear and dependency in us, the victim. Coercive control is what turns singular actions into a prolonged system of domination.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 2. Psychological Abuse IS the First Step

 

 

 

 

 

   Coercive control begins subtly, with emotional manipulation, monitoring, and isolation – wrapped in a package of pseudo romance of ‘caring’ for us – being ‘concerned’ for us. We may be cut off from friends, limited in our financial independence, or constantly monitored. These actions might not leave visible scars, but they establish the abuser’s control, which can later escalate into physical violence when we fail to comply with the abuser’s demands and rules. The psychological chains laid through coercive control enable the physical harm that often follows.

 

3. Physical Abuse is never the first tactic of abuse. 

 

 

 

 

 

   Coercive control weaves through all aspects of a person’s life, affecting everything from personal freedom to basic decision-making. The abuser uses this control to render us isolated, financially dependent, and fearful of consequences, reducing the likelihood of escape. Physical abuse comes when the other tactics are not as effective – it starts with physical threat – getting in our face, blocking our path, punching walls and when these tactics fail to restore control actual violence occurs. Think about it – If physical abuse was the first tactic used, i.e. without any coercive control, we would not have been worn down, feel worthless, confused, to blame and we would be able to leave. 

 

 

 

 

 

 4. Escape is Not Simple When Control is All-Encompassing

    Many people ask why victims don’t “just leave” abusive relationships. The answer often lies in the level of coercive control exerted. When an abuser controls every aspect of our life, including finances, social connections, and even self-worth, it makes leaving a daunting and often dangerous task. Coercive control is so deeply entrenched in our lives that we often feel there is no safe way to escape.

 

In short, coercive control is the backbone of domestic abuse and domestic violence. It ensures we remain under the abuser’s power, transforming what could be isolated incidents of harm into a prolonged pattern of domination. Domestic abuse and violence cannot be sustained without the emotional and psychological abuse of coercive control. Understanding this foundational element is key to supporting victim/survivors and addressing the true nature of abuse. Recognising coercive control as an integral part of abuse also informs better legal protections and support structures to help us safely rebuild our lives.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I say ‘us’ because those of us who have been subjected to violence and abuse in our lifetime do not live in a bubble – we are not ‘these women’ ‘mum’ to be ‘othered’ separated from you – we are in the room – we are always in the room. 

 

If you’d like to find out more about coercive control – our original drama LADY IN RED is now a CPD accredited  training package providing a unique engaging focus for your community awareness or company training event. Book a call with Claire to find out more HERE

If you need support for you or a loved one regarding coercive control here is a list of UK domestic abuse support organisations

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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In response to the recent report by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), highlighting the deepening epidemic of violence against women and girls, Certain Curtain Theatre Company calls for a community and family-based approach. The NPCC’s urgent appeal for action underscores the critical need for collective efforts to address and mitigate male violence and improve support for victim-survivors.

Community and Family Responsibility

“Violence against women and girls is not merely a policing issue; it is a societal problem that demands a unified community and family response.” Says Claire Moore, Director. Certain Curtain Theatre Company believes that change begins at home and within our communities. “By fostering open dialogue, promoting education, and encouraging proactive intervention, families and communities can play a pivotal role in shifting attitudes and behaviours that perpetuate violence.”

The Role of Theatre in Changing Attitudes

For over three decades, Certain Curtain Theatre Company has been at the forefront of using drama as a powerful tool to challenge and change societal attitudes towards male violence. Through thought-provoking performances and interactive workshops, the company has reached diverse audiences, illuminating the realities of domestic abuse and gender-based violence.

Our work is rooted in the belief that theatre can be a catalyst for social change,” said Claire Moore, Artistic Director of Certain Curtain Theatre Company. “We have developed unique CPD accredited training sessions which are open to the public as well as community groups and organisations” adds Claire. “By bringing these critical issues to the stage and screen, we create a space for reflection, discussion, and ultimately, transformation. Our productions don’t just tell stories; they inspire audiences to rethink their own attitudes and take action against violence in their communities.”

Impact on Victim-Survivors and the Community

Certain Curtain Theatre’s impactful performances have empowered countless victim-survivors by validating their experiences and providing a platform for their voices to be heard. By raising awareness and fostering empathy, the company’s work contributes to a more informed and supportive community response to those affected by violence.

“Theatre has a unique ability to engage people on an emotional level, making the realities of domestic violence impossible to ignore,” added Claire Moore. “Through our work, people can learn in their own homes or community/work settings and come to understand why domestic abuse and violence happens, how to recognise it and more importantly respond to it when it is happening to them, a loved one, colleague or client. We aim to break down the stigma that surrounds these issues and encourage a more compassionate and proactive approach to supporting victim-survivors.”

“3,000 offences recorded each day – is just the tip of the iceberg – as domestic abuse is still grossly under-reported”

Call to Action

In light of the NPCC’s report, Certain Curtain Theatre Company urges everyone to take responsibility in addressing the epidemic of violence against women and girls. This includes supporting educational initiatives, advocating for policy changes, and fostering a culture of respect and equality.

Together, we can create a safer, more just society for all. Join Certain Curtain Theatre Company in our mission to end violence against women and girls by attending our performances, participating in our workshops, and spreading awareness within your communities.

For more information about Certain Curtain Theatre Company’s work and upcoming events, please visit https://cctheatre.co.uk/domestic-violence-training/

Contact: Certain Curtain Theatre Company
Claire Moore, Artistic Director
Email: claire@cctheatre.co.uk
Phone: 07753487984

About Certain Curtain Theatre Company

Certain Curtain Theatre Company is a pioneering theatre company dedicated to using the power of drama to address social issues, particularly domestic abuse and violence against women. Established in 1989, the company has produced numerous critically acclaimed performances and workshops aimed at educating and empowering audiences across the UK and internationally.

For press inquiries, please contact:
claire@cctheatre.co.uk

[End of Release]

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We are fast approaching mental health awareness week and I’m not afraid to admit I made a Big mistake today. I let a funding bid rejection really get me down. It’s the second rejection for a new project – to film LADY IN RED. Using immersive digital techniques we’d make it more accessible; with an audio version for people who are blind and a signed version for people in the deaf community. It stopped me from doing anything productive all morning. I entered a cycle of questioning – Why am I doing this? Do I give up? Will anyone care if I do? To – What’s the point? 

Talking a walk

Then I decided I’d go for a walk at lunchtime. This has been difficult lately due to the side effects of the breast cancer medication I am on. However, I put on my trainers and off I went. I met a horse in a field who came to say hello and I told her how beautiful she is. Then I saw a duck in a large puddle in another field swimming away making the most of its puddle. I stopped to watch and it made me smile. Not a pond or a lake just a large puddle from the recent rain. But this duck didn’t care – it was making the most of it – concentrating on the positive – what it had. 

So I’m following the duck’s example. I have a great project which has won awards for its live performances. I also have some great connections. Martin Riley Caroline Roberts-Cherry of Saffron cherry Productions to make this immersive version happen when I DO get the funding

“If Things don’t change – they’ll stop as they are”

There’s a saying – ‘If things don’t change they’ll stop as they are.’

Never under estimate the power of putting yourself in a different environment. Connecting with nature, a walk round the block can lift your spirits and provide a much need moment of calm. A reminder that you can’t change other people/situations but you can change how you respond. Mental Health Awareness Week runs from Mon, May 15, 2023 – Sun, May 21, 2023.

So my resolve is doubled down and me and the duck are going to turn our pond into a lake. 

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We know our work makes a real and lasting impact on people’s understanding of these issues and we don’t want to see this valuable drama left on the shelf. So we will bring it back to life in a digital performance package, which will mean it can be accessed internationally and by a wider, diverse audience.

What we will create – a digital performance package

• A streamable version of our original drama MOCKINGBIRD HIGH
• A filmed Q&A with the writers and actors
• A downloadable support resource for community groups and support staff/organisations working with children and young people
• A live online Q&A with the company to explore the issues raised and their relevance to your work practice or personal experience
• Accreditation through CPD

We operate without any revenue funding and currently have no project funding in place to support this work. However, we do have organisations who want to see this happen. Through their support, we have managed to raise over half of what we need! Which is great news!

Great news – So – Can we reach our target?

With your help – we hope so. We have teamed up with GIVEY to raise the rest and need your help to spread the word! If you can donate to support that would be great! If you can’t spare anything at the moment sharing this link with a friend or two would be great too!

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Equipment to the value of £6,000 was taken, from our van whilst we stopped to stretch our legs near Leeds.

“We were absolutely devastated” says writer, John Woudberg, “They’ve basically stolen our livelihood. We parked at a retail village, near Leeds, to stretch our legs. The gang of men pulled up beside us. They looked like workmen, so we thought nothing of it but when we returned, minutes later, they had drilled out the driver’s side lock and taken everything of any value.”

As a small not-for-profit company, we operate without any revenue funding. We have been touring Britain and abroad, for over thirty years raising awareness of domestic violence and important social issues. We take professional theatre to community venues. It’s important for us to be able to turn these spaces into a theatre. Lighting is a big part of that.

Kindness at a difficult time

“We’d had an amazing response to our performance of ‘Lady In Red’,” says actor Claire Moore, “so we were on a real high, coming home. We thought we were going to have to cancel bookings in the run up to Christmas – something we have never done. Then Eaton came to the rescue. They kindly offered us the use of a Zero 88 lighting desk and dimmer packs to help us out whilst we try to raise funds to replace what we need. Their help and kindness certainly helps to restore our faith in human kind and has enabled us to perform to over 1000 people who we wouldn’t have been able to reach without their support. I cannot thank them enough!”

“We were really sorry to hear about the robbery” said Jon Hole, Product Manager for Zero 88. “The company do valuable work in communities across the UK using Zero 88 product. We are more than happy to help them out and wish them all the best in their fund-raising efforts.”

Anyone wishing to support our fund-raising efforts to replace equipment can make a donation online: https://www.paypal.me/cctheatre

Eaton Zero 88 are a manufacturer of lighting control equipment for the entertainment industry. http://zero88.com/

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Certain Curtain Theatre seeks to tell some of the history of the suffrage movement through the eyes and life of our very own Preston Suffragette, Mrs Edith Rigby. Exploring Edith’s life has been a fascinating journey. From an early age, she saw the inequalities of rich and poor, of boys and girls. She tried to make a difference. Her story remains largely unsung. But her journey from a girl who wanted equality through peaceful suffragist to militant is a fascinating one.

Notoriety!

Best known for burning down Lord Leverhulme’s hunting cottage in Rivington – Edith was a woman of ‘firsts.’ She was the first woman, in Preston, to ride a bicycle – in bloomers! – Much to the horror of onlookers – even her vicar – who feared for her very soul. She founded Preston’s first branch of ‘The Women’s Social and Political Union’ and a branch of The Women’s Institute. One of the first members of the Independent Labour Party (from which she was later expelled!)

She became friends with ‘notorious’ Suffragette, Christabel Pankhurst and joined the ‘suffrage movement’. Her exploits became the stuff of legend. Jailed, at least six times, for ‘terrorist attacks’. Her litany of crimes, is almost beyond belief; vandalising Lord Derby’s statue with tar, bombing the Liverpool Cotton Exchange, burning down a wealthy man’s hunting lodge – even the storming of Parliament itself! – And much, much more! This outrageous, extraordinary woman’s life led to her being shunned by neighbours but her fiery spirit was not easily dampened. Her story and the wider women’s suffrage struggle is one worth sharing. I hope audiences agree that theatre is an excellent way to do this.

WOMAN ON FIRE

Premiered at The Edinburgh Festival Fringe August 2017 with a great response and a 4 Star review from The Scotsman. We aim to take audiences back in time to experience one suffragette’s fiery journey fighting for women’s right to vote. To open a window into the past and hopefully reminding audiences of or indeed introducing audiences to the tenacity of our foremothers.

Ruthless terrorist or impassioned freedom fighter? Check the website for dates near you and you decide. http://www.cctheatre.co.uk/edith-rigby/

I hope WOMAN ON FIRE will light a fire in all who watch to fight for what they believe in.

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Alex Douglas, Senior Constable for the Royal Falkland Islands Police, explains: 

“This is part of a bigger initiative running in the Falkland Islands called ‘Know What’s Right’. As a tight knit community we want to give people the encouragement to speak up if they themselves need help. Or if they think there is a problem within their own immediate circle.

I’m delighted we have been able to secure Certain Curtain Theatre for this invaluable work. Their track record, expertise and reputation made them an excellent choice.”

Certain Curtain flew out to the Islands to deliver four performances of LADY IN RED. The play includes an after-show discussion to explore the wider issues, with support services on hand to offer advice and information. https://en.mercopress.com/2018/11/06/the-falkland-islands-launches-new-domestic-abuse-awareness-campaign

“Domestic violence is a global problem. 1 in 3 women worldwide have experienced physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence. Under-reporting means this is just the tip of the iceberg. Theatre is a great way to raise awareness and understanding.” says John Woudberg, writer and director. LADY IN RED explores one woman’s attempts to leave an abusive relationship. It helps audiences understand how difficult it can be to escape domestic abuse.”

“As part of the deal we filmed a short scene which means we can reach the more rural parts of the community via television.

It’s wonderful to be chosen to launch this important initiative. We are over the moon! This is a first for this type of theatre on the Islands. Having toured the UK regularly, this is the farthest we have travelled. It was wonderful to see the beautiful wildlife and even a couple of penguins too!”

Claire Moore

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