By KLTV Newdesk –

A new survey commissioned by domestic abuse charity Refuge has revealed a significant lack of awareness among UK adults about the scale and nature of domestic abuse.

The findings highlight that only 26% of people are aware that one in four women will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime.

While nearly 80% of respondents said they would report physical abuse, awareness of less visible forms of abuse remains alarmingly low.

Only 39% of those surveyed said they would report coercive control, economic abuse, psychological abuse, or technology-facilitated abuse, despite these being recognised as serious forms of domestic abuse.

Young People and Gender Disparities in Recognising Abuse

The research found a concerning generational divide in recognising abusive behaviours.

Just 57% of 18-24-year-olds identified ‘sharing intimate images without consent’ as abuse, compared to 88% of those aged over 55.

A gender gap was also evident in understanding economic abuse.

While 80% of women recognised ‘closely monitoring or tracking someone’s spending’ as abusive behaviour, only 64% of men agreed.

A New Campaign to Highlight the Hidden Realities of Abuse

In response to these findings, Refuge is launching a powerful new campaign for International Women’s Day (IWD) to raise awareness of the hidden dangers women face in abusive relationships.

A large-scale public installation, created by London-based agency AMV BBDO in partnership with Pixel Artworks, will be unveiled at Outernet London’s flagship digital exhibition space, The Now Building, on Charing Cross Road. The event will run from 10am-8pm on Saturday 8th March.

The striking installation will feature up to 100 physical red flags, each displaying a quote from a domestic abuse survivor, to symbolise the warning signs of abuse that often go unrecognised.

A dynamic soundscape will accompany the display, featuring the voices of acclaimed actors, including Olivia Colman (The Crown), Bella Ramsey (The Last of Us), and Adjoa Andoh (Bridgerton), who will narrate real survivor testimonies, bringing their stories to life in an immersive experience.

Raising Awareness Through Digital and Social Media

The campaign extends beyond the physical installation. Leveraging Outernet London’s cutting-edge digital screens, the initiative will blend physical and digital elements to emphasise the scale of domestic abuse.

Throughout March, Refuge and its ambassadors will share survivor experiences and educational content across social media, helping people recognise and understand abusive behaviours.

As part of the campaign, actor and poet Caitlin O’Ryan has written a thought-provoking poem titled Why Did You Stay?, which she will perform live during the event.

By shedding light on the often-overlooked forms of abuse, Refuge hopes to spark a much-needed conversation and encourage greater public awareness and action against domestic abuse.

For more information on the campaign and how to seek support, visit Refuge’s website.