How to recognise economic harm
July 5, 2021
Economic harm doesn’t leave visible marks. Like other forms of violence, it can be subtle – beginning with the smallest breach of trust and build over time.
Economic harm can affect anyone. It is experienced in the context of power and control.
The impact can be devastating and can influence financial security long after it’s over.
To support and protect people from economic harm, it’s important to be able to recognise the signs and know how to respond.
What does economic harm look like?
Economic harm can take form in all shapes and sizes. It can easily go unnoticed to begin with.
Below are some examples that may cause concern. Individually these may mean very little, however several together can show a pattern of behaviour that indicates economic harm may be occurring:
How to spot it when you’re not involved
Money is often a taboo topic which means it’s easier for economic harm to slip under the radar.
Below we’ve listed a few examples of what you might notice about someone else.
Related
Red flags that someone might be experiencing economic harm
Why conversations about money matter
Meet Beryl who is working to address a gap in family violence
Remember
The most important factor to keep in mind is that someone who is experiencing economic harm may not feel comfortable or safe to have a conversation with their partner about what is happening with their money.
Finding support
Our Economic Harm Specialists can provide support with the financial challenges of family violence. They have experience in financial capability and advocacy, and working with those who have experienced family violence/economic harm.
To speak to an Economic Harm Specialist, call 0800 466 370 and select option 4.
You can also contact our Economic Harm Specialists by completing our online form.
If you suspect economic harm is occurring, other forms of family violence may also be present or if you need to speak to someone about relationship difficulties family violence agencies are best placed to work with you.
Family violence agencies will be able to establish whether other forms of abuse are occurring, and we would encourage you to call one of the agencies.
It is important to take some form of action to stop or address economic harm, but only when it is safe to do so.
More information about economic harm
Economic Harm Explained
What is a Healthy Financial Relationship?
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