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What is financial abuse?
Not having enough money for things is a big problem for a lot of families, especially during the coronavirus outbreak. But, not having a lot of money for everyone and making sure to stick to a reasonable budget is different to one person controlling it all and stopping other members of the family from having things they need and want.
If your parent or partner is stopping you, or one parent/carer is stopping the other from having money, then this is financial abuse.
Financial abuse can take place in different ways:
- Giving you money and making you tell them how you have spent it.
- Not letting you have any access to a bank account or money.
- Stopping you from working.
- Taking out debt in your name or making you take on debt for them.
- Not giving you money towards household bills when they live with you.
- Not paying maintenance for children when the relationship has ended.
UK Finance also has a handy guide on how to recognise financial abuse.
What does the law say?
Financial abuse, like all abuse, is illegal in Scotland. If someone is forced to be dependent on someone financially or if their money or income is controlled, monitored or restricted by a partner or ex-partner then it is considered coercive control, which is a crime. Find out more about coercive control.
Where can you get help and support?
A number of banks have signed up to a Code of Conduct that includes supporting people who are being financially abused. Find out more about it on the UK Finance website.
Find out where to get support.