Attacks, abuse and violence

What is assault?

An assault  is a physical attack and can include things like being pushed, shoved, punched or kicked. It can even involve weapons, for example if someone hits you with something.

Assault can happen anywhere – at home, at school, in the street or in the park – and often the person knows the other person who attacks them. Assault can also be carried out by a gang of people.

What should I do if I am physically attacked?

• Get free. Focus on the best way to free yourself from your attacker. This might mean shouting out to draw attention to the attack or hitting them to get to stop for a second.
• Get safe. Once you’re free, run as far away as possible to the nearest adult or person you trust. Then call the police and the adult you trust the most.