Charities warn of domestic abuse over the festive period. How to spot the signs and get help. | News

As many of us look forward to spending Christmas with loved ones, sadly, police and domestic abuse support services are preparing for a surge in calls over the festive period.

In some homes- the potential stress of the Christmas holidays, drinking at home and being ‘cooped up’ together can all put people at greater risk of abuse.

Reports of domestic abuse tend to increase during December and January. Of all crimes recorded by the police in December 2020, 19.3% were domestic abuse related.

Charities fear that violent or controlling behaviour could be even worse this year, because of the added pressures from a rise in the cost of living.

In 2015, the law changed to recognise acts of control and coercion as a form of abuse. These types of behaviour are wide-ranging but examples include: telling someone what to wear, when they can go out, how much money they can have, what friends they can see, putting them down in front of others and giving them the ‘silent treatment’.

 

Signs to look out for

Domestic abuse is often hidden from sight, even from close family and friends. It’s important that we all know how to spot the signs of abuse – here’s what to look out for:

• a person having injuries, and saying it was an ‘accident’;

• they stay at home more and miss work or social occasions without explanation;

• they dress in clothes designed to hide bruises or scars (such as long sleeves in warm conditions or sunglasses indoors);

• a change in their behaviour such as becoming more withdrawn;

• they don’t take your calls or respond to your messages;

• they appear overly anxious, worried or depressed.

 

How to get help

Thankfully there’s lots of support available for people experiencing domestic abuse, and for their families. If you need support, or you think someone else might, get in touch with our Domestic Abuse and Violence Service on 01204 329636 or email davservice@boltonathome.org.uk during office hours.

You can also get support from:

• Bolton Safeguarding Adults Team 01204 337000

• National Domestic Abuse Helpline 0808 2000 247

• Greater Manchester Domestic Abuse Helpline 0800 254 0909

• Fortalice 01204 365677

• Endeavour 01204 394842

• Age UK Bolton 01204 382411

• Your GP or other NHS health providers

• Police – you can call the local police on the 101 non-emergency number or call 999 in an emergency.

Further contacts, links and numbers here: www.boltonathome.org.uk/domestic-abuse

 

Remember – the best way to stop abuse is to tell someone.