ITV’s Emmerdale are currently running a developing storyline where newlyweds Belle Dingle and Tom King’s marriage is turning dark as Tom aims to control his wife.
Historically domestic abuse was seen as just physical violence. However, domestic abuse has become increasingly recognised as not just being physical. It can be defined as any behaviour that is controlling, coercive, threatening and can include violence, psychological, sexual, financial and emotional abuse.
Like any woman and men experiencing any type of domestic abuse Belle will become more and more isolated as she hides her abuse from the rest of the Dingles and friends in the village.
The show will highlight how the abuse can increase over time, as well as some of the common tactics used by the abusers such as gas lighting, love bombing and manipulation.
Prior to their wedding Tom was unhappy that Belle didn’t want to take his name and he eventually manipulated her into agreeing to become ‘King’. He told Belle that she doesn’t need to work as he can support them both but she has told him she wants to build her own career.
In the show, as the plot develops, we will see Tom has put a tracking app on his and his wife’s phone which allows him to see where Belle is at all times. The aim of this aspect of the storyline is to highlight how since the Covid pandemic, there has been an increase in tech abuse with tracking devices making surveying a partner a new facet to domestic abuse.
Just how far will Tom go to get full control his wife?
Even the National Cyber Security Centre has recognised the existence of ‘domestic cyber crime’ where an abuser uses digital technology to track, isolate and monitor someone.
As difficult as it is to watch these types of story lines, soap operas are vital for highlighting important issues such as domestic abuse and to recognise the signs as well as giving the victims a voice.
National organisations exist to support anyone experiencing these problems. Refuge has a 24 hour National Abuse Helpline: 0800 2000 247 and has a website about cyber security
We have an experienced and understanding Family Law team that can guide you through domestic abuse matters. We can fully advise you on the immediate steps you can take to protect yourself and your children and help support you moving forward.
Call Michelle Simpson or Carla Hazelwood at our New Mills office on 01663 743 344 or email them here
