Financial abuse is one of the most insidious forms of control, often hidden behind the guise of “protection” or “care.” It can happen in marriages, family relationships, or even in friendships, leaving victims feeling trapped and powerless. Recognizing the signs is the first step toward breaking free.
🚩Red Flags You Shouldn’t Ignore
Here’s what financial abuse can look like and why it’s so dangerous:
- You’re not allowed to work, study, or grow your income
- You must ask for money or explain every purchase
- Your bank cards or ID are hidden or taken from you
- He checks your phone to monitor what you buy or search
- You’re blamed for being “bad with money”, even if you’ve never had control
- You don’t know how much is in the family account, or how much debt you’re in
- You’re told:
“If you leave me, you’ll have nothing.”
Sound familiar? You’re not alone.
🧠 Why It’s So Hard to See
Because financial abuse:
- Often hides behind “protection”, “I’m just taking care of things for you.”
- Is normalized in cultural or religious roles
- Rarely leaves visible bruises, but destroys confidence and independence
It’s abuse in slow motion. And it traps women in silence.
💡 What You Can Do About It
You may feel powerless right now. But you are not helpless. Here are steps to take back your control — one decision at a time:
1. Name It, Claim It
Abuse thrives in secrecy. You are not crazy. You are not overreacting.
This is real and you deserve better.
2. Start Secretly Tracking & Documenting
Keep quiet notes (in a safe place or hidden app) of:
- Income you’re denied access to
- Threats or controlling behaviour
- Passwords, bills, important contacts
Knowledge = safety.
3. Create a Hidden Escape Fund
Even saving £1 at a time is powerful. You can:
- Use a secure, notification-free app (like SheSecure, built for women like you)
- Hide small cash amounts somewhere safe
- Ask a trusted friend to help you store money if needed
This isn’t just savings. It’s freedom in disguise.
4. Reach Out to Safe Support
You are not alone and you don’t have to do this alone.
Here’s who you can speak to confidentially:
- Refuge UK: refuge.org.uk – 24/7 support
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline (UK): 0808 2000 247
- A local women’s group, therapist, or someone you trust
Even just talking about it is a form of taking power back.
5. Learn, Grow, & Rebuild
Start learning about your financial rights, budgeting, saving, and protection.
Your past doesn’t define your future, but your next steps do.
✨ You Deserve Financial Freedom
If you’ve ever felt trapped, voiceless, or like your money isn’t really yours, this is your sign.
You are not a burden.
You are not asking for too much.
You are worthy of independence, peace, and choices.
Your money is part of your voice. And it’s time to take it back.
❤️ Let’s Talk
Have you experienced this or seen it happen to someone you love?
Drop a comment below or just send this to someone who might need it.
SheSecure is here to help women save money safely, smartly, and secretly, no notifications, no judgment, just quiet power. 💼✨