ABC Framework

If we aren’t talking about coercive control, we aren’t talking about domestic abuse because it’s there at the beginning and it’s there at the end. It’s the thread that runs through domestic abuse.

The ABC framework serves as a simple, memorable checklist for spotting potential signs of coercive control. The framework emphasises professional curiosity and observation. Noticing changes in ABC areas can open safe avenues for conversation, helping to understand the bigger picture without jumping to conclusions.

It proves particularly useful in workplace settings, where work may be one of the few safe places for someone experiencing domestic abuse. The framework acts as a practical communication tool and early warning system. It will help employers identify red flags because abuse escalates to physical violence.

Coercive control is worse than physical violence in many ways because it’s invisible – until you know what to look for. The ABC Framework makes the invisible visible so employers can step up and support their people when it matters most.

3 Early Warning Signs of Coercive Control

APPEARANCE

Changes in appearance often signals the emotional and psychological toll of coercive control.

BEHAVIOUR

Coercive control profoundly impacts a victim’s behaviour, as perpetrators often seek to isolate, monitor, or manipulate their actions.

CONVERSATION

Coercive control often alters how those experiencing coercive control communicate, as perpetrators may monitor or manipulate their speech and interactions.

The ABC Framework turns awareness into action. It’s not about being a counsellor. It’s about being the colleague or manager who notices.

“When I was sacked, it took away my identity and my sense of belonging and sense of direction. That was the worst part of my journey because I loved my job and I worked really hard. For me, if anyone should have been able to see the difference in my behaviour it was my boss. I just wanted him to listen to me. I didn’t need him to fix anything, or rescue me or tell me what to do, but I was looking for a bit of comfort or reassurance that everything was going to be okay.”

The ABC framework that I have created stands for Appearance, Behaviour and Conversation. These are all things which might change in someone and can be looked out for. This can be particularly important at work, and sometimes, that’s the only safe place for the victim to be.

They don’t need fixing. They just need you to listen and believe them.

“I really appreciated Samantha being so open and honest about her experiences. The ABC is very useful and it can open up avenues for conversations.”

Social Worker - Webinar Attendee

“Before Samantha’s training, we had a wellbeing policy but no real confidence to use it. The ABC Framework gave our managers a practical language for something they’d always found difficult to approach. It’s already changed how our team responds.”

Head of People & Culture, NHS Trust

“Samantha Billingham’s work on the ‘Protect Animals. Protect People’ campaign with Naturewatch Foundation has been both highly professional and deeply impactful. Her passion, dedication, and lived experience bring a unique authenticity to her advocacy. Samantha has amplified survivors’ voices while also helping to shape policy and raise awareness of animal cruelty as a critical warning sign of domestic abuse. Her efforts inspire confidence, build trust, and create meaningful change. We are truly grateful for her leadership.”

Mark Randell
Campaign Manager and Retired Senior Detective

“Samantha and ‘Stronger beginnings’ are invaluable assets to the domestic abuse sector. Sam brings not just a wealth of knowledge, experience and humility, but she is a natural trainer, exceptional communicator and a dream to work with. Her assistance with a wide range of training and consultancy projects has been crucial to their impact and success; I highly recommend her to anyone wishing to better understand the reality of domestic abuse and coercive control.”