‘Spotting the Red Flags’ – New campaign launched in Liverpool to raise awareness of domestic abuse warning signs

A powerful new campaign is being launched in Liverpool this month, shining a light on the often-hidden signs of coercive control and domestic abuse – and it’s been shaped by the real-life experiences of survivors.

On Thursday 24 April, Merseyside Police and the region’s Police and Crime Commissioner came together with local charity, ‘The First Step,’ domestic abuse victim-survivors and partners at a public event on Church Street to unveil the latest phase of the #TakingAction campaign.

Visitors to the city centre were be able to learn more about the signs of coercive and controlling behaviour, speak with campaign supporters, and see first-hand the powerful creative materials designed to raise awareness and spark important conversations.

This latest phase of the campaign puts lived experience at the forefront – with survivors from The First Step sharing their stories to help others spot the ‘red flags’ of abuse in relationships that may be overlooked or dismissed. These can often start subtly – with controlling actions disguised as concern or affection – and escalate to create an environment of fear and isolation.

Detective Chief Superintendent Paul Lamb from Merseyside Police said:

“This campaign is all about helping people recognise the red flags of domestic abuse. Coercive control doesn’t always look the way people expect – it’s often hidden behind charming behaviour. We want victims, and their friends and families, to know the signs and to feel empowered to seek support.”

The launch builds on last year’s first phase of the #TakingAction campaign, and this next chapter will be rolled out across Merseyside through a wide-reaching digital and print campaign, with messages on buses, rail stations, billboards, social media and more.

Emily Spurrell, Police and Crime Commissioner for Merseyside, said:

“Coercive control is abuse. It’s not romantic or protective – it’s about power and manipulation. This campaign is helping people understand that, and giving them the confidence to get help if something feels wrong.”

Local charity The First Step, based in Knowsley, has been at the heart of the campaign development.

Their Community Domestic Abuse Manager, Jenny Dennett, said:

“Survivors are experts. They know the signs because they’ve lived through it. Many didn’t realise they were in abusive relationships until long after the damage was done. That’s why raising awareness is so important – it helps people recognise the danger sooner, and it saves lives.”

As well as raising awareness, the campaign is supported by a wide range of measures being put in place across the region, including:

• A dedicated Merseyside Police team targeting high-risk domestic abuse perpetrators
• More than £1.2 million in funding for community-based domestic abuse support
• Early intervention and trauma-informed training for frontline police officers
• Specialist support advisors accompanying officers on domestic abuse calls
• Virtual policing options for victims who prefer not to report in-person

The campaign is part of a broader effort to tackle violence against women and girls in Merseyside and make sure support is available for those who need it – whenever they are ready to speak out.

If you’re concerned about yourself or someone else, you can find support and advice here.

For more details on the campaign, visit the website.

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