Harrowing TV storyline explores impact of domestic abuse

If you are an Emmerdale fan, you will be aware of the Belle King storyline. If you are not, let us explain.

Fans have recently been watching Belle suffer domestic abuse at the hands of her manipulative and controlling husband, Tom.

Belle, played by Eden Taylor-Draper, has been suffering this abuse for months, and throughout this time Tom, played by James Chase, has been seen:

• Physically, verbally and emotionally abusing Belle;
• Controlling their finances and making a list of what Belle spends;
• Jeopardising the chance of Belle getting a job – so she is financially reliant on him;
• Feeding false information to Belle’s family and friends;
• Slowly cutting Belle off from her friends;
• Putting trackers / spyware onto Belle’s laptop and phone and watching her through the puppy camera they have for their dog;
• Turning an issue that Belle has brought up into something that is her fault.

These are all clear signs and indicators of domestic abuse and controlling behaviour - and producers of the show have worked closely with the charity Refuge on this storyline.

If you are being subjected to domestic abuse, you will no doubt relate and have experienced some of the same things as Belle. You might even think it is love - especially when, like Tom, they are telling you things like:

• Don’t work, I can provide for you;
• I just get so angry because I love you so much;
• I can’t live without you – I don’t trust myself if you left.

Whilst this may be romanticised, this behaviour is not normal or healthy. It is manipulative.

If you find yourself watching and relating to Belle’s experiences – or parts of it – we urge you to speak to someone.

We know how difficult it can be, especially with it involving someone you love, have ties to, or are even scared of – but help is out there and you will be listened to.

You can also speak to us by calling 101, or report it through our online reporting tool. If you are in immediate danger, call 999.

You can find helplines and more about domestic abuse and the support available, as well as how to request information under Clare’s Law, on our See Me campaign page.