The statistics for domestic abuse are sobering. Each year over 120 women are killed by their partner, and more than 30 men killed by theirs.

Domestic abuse crimes account for 29 per cent of all recorded violence against the person crimes, and nearly one quarter of all crimes recorded nationally.

The Home Office definition of domestic abuse is: “Any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (physical, sexual, financial, psychological or emotional) between adults aged 18 or over, who are or have been partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality. ‘Family members’ extends to parents, siblings, children, grandparents, step families or in laws. You do not need to have lived together to fall into the definition.”

Q The police cautioned my ex-boyfriend with assault, and are taking no more steps. However I am still very frightened of him, and am worried he will continue with his behaviour towards me. We are in a same-sex relationship. What can I do?

A If you are frightened for your immediate safety, you may want to contact RESPECT an organisation offering advice to male perpetrators but also advice to male victims.

Their website is mensadviceline.org.uk and telephone number is 0808 801 0327.

There is also one refuge in the UK which is able to take in gay male victims of domestic abuse.

You may need to see a solicitor to see what civil law possibilities are open to you.

You may be entitled to apply for a non-molestation order through the civil courts, preventing your ex from repeating his violent or threatening behaviour towards you.

You may also be entitled to an occupation order, which can require your ex to leave a property.

You should note that if your ex breaks the terms of a non-molestation order, that is a criminal offence.

You should also note that a caution is proof of domestic abuse.

This means that if you need to bring further proceedings and are financially entitled to legal aid, you will have the proof to allow you to obtain the legal aid.