Online dating has become one of the most common ways people meet, whether for friendship, connection, or long‑term relationships. With so much of our social interaction happening through screens, it’s easier than ever to build meaningful connections. But it’s also easier for harmful behaviour, dishonesty, and manipulation to slip through unnoticed. Understanding common red flags...
Parenting during tough times isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about creating a safe, loving space where your child feels heard and valued. Children often struggle to express emotions clearly, and they rely on us to guide them with patience and empathy. This guide will help you support your child through challenges, whether they’re...
Coercive control is one of the most common forms of domestic abuse. It is also one of the hardest to recognise. It happens slowly, often hidden behind everyday behaviour. Many people do not realise it is happening to someone they care about until the pattern is clearer. If you are worried about a friend, family...
If you are going through a police investigation after experiencing abuse, it’s normal to have questions about therapy and whether it could affect your case. This page explains pre-trial therapy in a clear and simple way, so you can understand your options and feel more in control. Do I have the right to therapy...
What should I do if I think someone is in an abusive relationship? DO: Listen without judgement Let them speak freely. Believe what they’re telling you, even if it’s hard to hear. Victims often fear they won’t be believed or may have been told the abuse is their fault. “You’re not alone. I’m here...
Grooming is a serious issue that affects young people around the world. It’s important to understand what grooming is, how to recognise it, and what steps to take if you or someone you know is being groomed. In this guide, we’ll answer key questions about grooming, give real-life examples, and help you stay safe online...
It can be incredibly difficult to speak to someone you care about or work with about their behaviour, especially if you suspect it may be harmful or abusive. But raising the issue, even gently, could help them reflect, change course, or seek support and help. Silence, on the other hand, can allow abuse to continue...
Why Healthy Relationships Matter Relationships can be amazing, bringing joy, support, and companionship into your life. But how do you know if your relationship—whether romantic or a close friendship—is actually healthy? A good relationship should make you feel safe, valued, and respected. If you’re unsure, don’t worry! This guide will help you recognise the green...
Ever felt drained after spending too much time with someone? Or agreed to something you weren’t comfortable with just to avoid conflict? That’s where boundaries come in. Boundaries help you protect your energy, communicate your needs, and build healthier relationships—whether with a partner, a friend, or even family. Setting them doesn’t mean you don’t care...
Discovering or suspecting that someone you care about is facing domestic abuse can be distressing. You may feel unsure of what to say, how to help, or afraid of making the situation worse. This guide offers practical, safe and compassionate ways to support a loved one without putting them, or yourself at further risk. How...
Finding out or suspecting that someone you care about is in a domestic abuse relationship can be incredibly upsetting. It’s natural to want to help, but knowing what to do, what to say, and how to be a good friend in this situation can be difficult. Spotting the Signs of a Domestic Abusive Relationship Sometimes,...
Talking to young people about peer pressure, consent, and personal boundaries can feel like a big responsibility, but it’s an important conversation. The key is to create a space where they feel safe, heard, and supported. If a young person confides in you about feeling pressured, here’s how to guide them in the right direction:...
Why These Conversations Matter Young people navigate relationships at a crucial stage in their lives—whether friendships, dating, or online interactions. The way they understand relationships now can shape their future emotional well-being and decision-making. But talking about relationships with them isn’t always easy. They might feel awkward, dismissive, or even resistant. So, how can you...
Talking to young people about boundaries is one of the most important ways to support their personal growth, confidence, and well-being. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, mentor, or friend, helping them understand and set healthy boundaries can empower them to navigate relationships with respect and self-awareness. But let’s be honest—starting the conversation can feel tricky....
Conversations about sex and relationships with young people can be challenging, but one of the most critical topics to address is sexual coercion. As parents, guardians, mentors, or educators, it’s our responsibility to equip young people with the knowledge and confidence to recognise and resist coercion while fostering respectful relationships. What Is Sexual Coercion? Sexual...
Talking to young people about abuse can be challenging, but it’s vital to help them recognise unhealthy relationship patterns early. As an adult, whether you’re a parent, teacher, mentor, or family member, your guidance can make a difference in helping them navigate relationships safely. Abuse isn’t always obvious, and young people may not recognise warning...
If you have been raped or sexually assaulted, you are not alone. Support is available, whenever it happened, and whatever you choose to do next. What Should I Do First? Get to a safe place if you can. Consider your immediate needs: If you are injured or need urgent help, call 999. Try not to wash,...
When we think of abuse, we often picture someone being harmed but what if the person causing harm is someone we know, work with, or care about? It can be deeply unsettling to suspect a friend, family member, or colleague may be displaying abusive behaviours. Yet recognising those signs early is essential, especially when the...
Experiencing domestic abuse, sexual assault, or rape can lead to a wide range of emotional, psychological, and physical responses. It’s essential to remember that your reactions are completely normal. The trauma you’ve experienced affects your body and mind in many ways, but with the right support and self-care, healing is possible. This guide is designed...
Relationships should be safe, supportive, and full of respect. However, sometimes what starts as love can turn into something harmful. Abuse isn’t always obvious, and it’s not just physical—there are many ways someone can be controlling or hurtful in a relationship. If you’re between 16 and 24, this is a crucial time to recognise unhealthy...
As a parent, you want to protect your child from unhealthy relationships. Love bombing is a manipulation tactic where someone overwhelms another person with excessive affection, gifts, and praise to gain control. It’s often used by people with narcissistic tendencies or those looking to establish power in a relationship. At first, it might seem like...
At First Light, we know that LGBTQ+ people are at higher risk of domestic abuse and sexual violence, and can face unique barriers when reaching out for help. Fear of not being believed, worries about discrimination, or being ‘outed’ without consent can all make it harder to find safe and understanding support. Our services are...
Talking about sex and relationships can feel awkward, but it’s really important to understand how to have healthy, respectful interactions. One key topic that often gets overlooked is sexual coercion. Knowing what it is and how to deal with it can help you make safer choices and stand up for yourself and others. What Is...
Consent is one of the most important topics to discuss with young people, but it can also feel like a tricky conversation to start. Many teenagers and young adults are navigating relationships for the first time, and they need clear, honest, and non-judgemental guidance to understand what healthy, respectful interactions look like. As an adult—whether...
Talking to Young People About Grooming: A Guide for Adults Grooming is a serious issue that can put young people at risk of exploitation and abuse. As an adult, it’s crucial to understand what grooming is, recognise the warning signs, and know how to have open and supportive conversations with young people. This guide will...
The Lullaby Trust exists to keep babies safe and to keep grieving families supported. We do this by funding life-saving research, empowering families with expert baby safety advice and supporting grieving families through their darkest days. We won’t give up until no baby dies suddenly or unexpectedly. Here you will find links to guides and...
Definitions Sexual Assault: Sexual assault is defined as an act of physical, psychological, or emotional violation in the form of a sexual act, inflicted on someone without their consent. This can include unwanted touching, groping, or any other form of non-consensual sexual activity. Rape: Rape is legally defined as when a person intentionally penetrates another’s vagina, anus,...
Sexual violence, rape, and sexual assault are serious issues that can have profound impacts on individuals and communities. It’s crucial for organisations and businesses to understand the realities of these crimes, dispel common myths, and provide robust support to affected staff members. This guide aims to educate and equip your organisation with the knowledge and...
Taking legal action against domestic abuse can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re already dealing with fear, trauma, or confusion. But understanding what happens after reporting abuse and the legal protections available can make the process feel more manageable and empowering. This guide walks through the key steps in the legal process, from making a report...
Coercive control is a deliberate pattern of behaviour used to harm, punish or frighten someone. It involves controlling aspects of a person’s life, what they wear, where they go, who they speak to, or how they spend money. It slowly chips away at someone’s confidence and independence until they feel trapped. It often happens gradually...
What is Consent? Consent is simple—it’s about making sure everyone involved actually wants to do something. It’s a clear, enthusiastic, and voluntary “yes” to any activity, whether it’s holding hands, kissing, or sex. But consent isn’t just a one-time thing. It’s an ongoing conversation that should always involve mutual respect and clear communication. What Consent...
Domestic abuse is a serious and often hidden issue that affects millions of people across the UK. It can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or background. Understanding what domestic abuse is, and how to recognise the signs, is an important step in helping to protect yourself and others. Domestic Abuse Definition According...
What is Love Bombing? Have you ever met someone who showers you with attention, compliments, and affection right away? They text you constantly, call you their soulmate within days, and make big promises about your future together? It might feel amazing at first, like a fairytale. But be careful—this could be love bombing. Love bombing...
If you have experienced sexual abuse, domestic abuse, or church-related abuse and have reported this to the police, you may hear the term pre-trial therapy. This can raise questions or concerns, especially during an already difficult time. This page explains what pre-trial therapy is, what it involves, and what your rights are, based on guidance...
What is Sexual Coercion? Sexual coercion is when someone uses pressure, alcohol or drugs, or force to engage in sexual activity with you against your will. This includes persistent attempts to have sexual contact after you have refused. What Does It Look Like? Sexual coercion can take many forms, such as: Someone keeps asking...
What is Sexual Harassment? Sexual harassment is when someone carries out unwanted sexual behaviour towards another person that makes them feel upset, scared, offended, or humiliated. It is also when someone carries out this behaviour with the intention of making someone else feel that way. This means that it can still be sexual harassment even...
Sexual violence is a deeply traumatic experience that can affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and genders. Despite its widespread impact, it is often surrounded by silence, stigma, and misinformation. Understanding what sexual violence is, how it relates to sexual assault and rape, and where to seek help is essential for supporting survivors and preventing...
Relationships can be amazing, but they can also come with tricky moments. One of the toughest situations is feeling pressured into something you’re not cool with, especially when it comes to sex or intimacy. If that’s ever happened to you, first off—you’re not alone, and second—you have every right to stand your ground. Here’s how...
It can be difficult to know what to do if you think someone you know is being abused, especially if they haven’t said anything directly. But your instincts may be right, and taking careful, compassionate action can make all the difference. This guide outlines safe, practical steps to take if you suspect someone is in...
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