MEP urges victims of harassment and coercive control to seek help

Sinn Féin MEP Kathleen Funchion said 'getting out' of such relationships can be very difficult and urged anyone supporting victims not be judgemental as simply being there to listen is more important. Picture: Gareth Chaney/Collins

MEP Kathleen Funchion has urged victims of coercive control or harassment to seek support in warning that such abuse can be "subtle" and "happens over time".

The Sinn Féin politician, whose former partner was this week jailed under Coco's Law, has detailed the lasting distress she endured which brought her to "breaking point".