Post-separation abuse refers to a pattern of abusive behaviour that either begins or continues after a relationship has ended. Where a relationship was abusive prior to the separation, the nature of the abuse may change and/or escalate when the relationship ends, as the abuser seeks to continue exerting control over the victim. Despite increasing recognition, there remain significant gaps in how post-separation abuse is understood within the criminal justice system and how coercive and controlling behaviour may present post-separation.

This gap in understanding can result in victims being overlooked and incorrectly considered as no longer at risk, or at reduced risk, post-separation. However, postseparation abuse is common, and survivors are at particular risk of abuse in the period following the end of a relationship. In 2025, over half of the calls made to the Rights of Women criminal law advice line identified an ex-partner as the abuser.

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