When Finances Feel Restrictive

Economic abuse can happen in any relationship. Learn how to recognise it and find support.

At SheFinance, we believe every woman has the right to feel safe and free from fear. If you are experiencing domestic abuse, sexual violence, or economic abuse, or are concerned about someone you care about, support is available. You are not alone.

Understanding Financial and Economic Abuse

Financial or economic abuse is a hidden form of control that can happen in any relationship. It occurs when someone uses money, resources, or access to essentials to limit another person’s freedom. Often, it starts subtly, “helping” with bills or managing finances, but can escalate into behaviours that control every part of your life.

Did you know?

1 in 7 women in the UK experiences economic abuse by a current or former partner.
Economic abuse is legally recognised under the Domestic Abuse Act.
It usually happens alongside other forms of abuse, including emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, but this is not always the case.

How Economic Abuse Can Show Up

An abuser may:

Control or monitor your income, spending, or bank accounts
Take out credit or loans in your name without your permission
Limit access to work, education, or essential resources like transport, food, or clothing
Force you to ask for money, justify purchases, or keep a spending diary
Destroy possessions or refuse to contribute to household costs
Even after leaving, abuse can continue, leaving debt, poor credit, and financial instability.

Could This Be Happening to You? Some common signs of economic abuse include:

Not having enough money for essentials, even if you work
Having to ask for money or justify every purchase
Being prevented from working, studying, or accessing benefits
Loans, credit cards, or bills being in your name without your knowledge
Having no access to joint accounts, household finances, or property
Being isolated from friends, family, or support networks

Ask yourself: Do you feel anxious about money because of someone else’s control? Are there times you’ve had to hide purchases or feel trapped financially?
If yes, these may be signs of abuse, even if it feels subtle or “just part of the relationship.”

Real-Life Examples

“He had access to all my bank accounts, and I didn’t know anything about his finances.”
“Loans were taken out in my name using my phone. I didn’t know until the bills arrived.”
“Even after separating, he threatened not to pay child maintenance unless I did chores for him.”

These experiences are common and recognising them is the first step towards reclaiming control.

How to Support Yourself or Someone Else

Believe and listen: Economic abuse is real, and it is not the victim’s fault. Listen and allow them to share when they are ready.
Offer practical help: Provide essentials, a safe space, or assist with planning next steps.
Provide information: Share helplines or online support resources.
Act safely: If there is immediate danger, call 999.

Economic abuse affects all stages of life and can leave long-term financial challenges. Support is available to help you regain independence, stability, and safety.

Getting Help

If you or someone you know is experiencing financial or economic abuse, it’s important to reach out. Help is available across the UK for advice, safety planning, and financial guidance.

Support is available across the UK.

If you need support in this area, the charity Surviving Economic Abuse offers a Financial Support Line, providing specialist advice and guidance.
👉 Find out more here

Live Fear Free Helpline (Wales)
The Live Fear Free Helpline, run by Welsh Women’s Aid, offers free, confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether you need immediate help, someone to talk to, or simply information, their experienced team of advocates are there to listen, support, and guide you.

You do not have to be ready to take action, and you will not be judged or blamed. The team will meet you where you are, with understanding and compassion.

How to get in touch:
Call: 0808 80 10 800
Text: 07860 077333 (24/7)
Find out more: Welsh Women’s Aid – Live Fear Free

Helplines Across the UK
If you live outside Wales, here are the helplines available to you:
England: National Domestic Abuse Helpline
Scotland: Scotland Women’s Aid Helpline
Northern Ireland: Nexus NI Helpline

Remember

Reaching out for support is a sign of strength. Whether you need immediate help, emotional support, or practical advice, these services are here to stand alongside you. You deserve safety, freedom, and peace of mind.

When Finances Feel Restrictive

Understanding Financial and Economic Abuse

Did you know?

1 in 7 women in the UK experiences economic abuse by a current or former partner.

Economic abuse is legally recognised under the Domestic Abuse Act.

It usually happens alongside other forms of abuse, including emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, but this is not always the case.

How Economic Abuse Can Show Up

An abuser may:

Control or monitor your income, spending, or bank accounts

Take out credit or loans in your name without your permission

Limit access to work, education, or essential resources like transport, food, or clothing

Force you to ask for money, justify purchases, or keep a spending diary

Destroy possessions or refuse to contribute to household costs

Even after leaving, abuse can continue, leaving debt, poor credit, and financial instability.

Could This Be Happening to You? Some common signs of economic abuse include:

Not having enough money for essentials, even if you work

Having to ask for money or justify every purchase

Being prevented from working, studying, or accessing benefits

Loans, credit cards, or bills being in your name without your knowledge

Having no access to joint accounts, household finances, or property

Being isolated from friends, family, or support networks

Ask yourself: Do you feel anxious about money because of someone else’s control? Are there times you’ve had to hide purchases or feel trapped financially? If yes, these may be signs of abuse, even if it feels subtle or “just part of the relationship.”

Real-Life Examples

How to Support Yourself or Someone Else

Believe and listen: Economic abuse is real, and it is not the victim’s fault. Listen and allow them to share when they are ready.

Offer practical help: Provide essentials, a safe space, or assist with planning next steps.

Provide information: Share helplines or online support resources.

Act safely: If there is immediate danger, call 999.

Economic abuse affects all stages of life and can leave long-term financial challenges. Support is available to help you regain independence, stability, and safety.

Getting Help

Remember

Reaching out for support is a sign of strength. Whether you need immediate help, emotional support, or practical advice, these services are here to stand alongside you. You deserve safety, freedom, and peace of mind.

Women Talking Money

Ask yourself: Do you feel anxious about money because of someone else’s control? Are there times you’ve had to hide purchases or feel trapped financially?
If yes, these may be signs of abuse, even if it feels subtle or “just part of the relationship.”