Don’t suffer in silence this Christmas

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Don't suffer in silence this Christmas

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Christmas is mostly associated with celebration, joy and socialising with friends and family. However, it is during the festive period that police forces across the UK see a surge in cases of domestic abuse.

Often families spend more time at home together during Christmas and this can make it easier for a perpetrator to carry out abuse.

There is no excuse for domestic abuse and Knowsley Council is urging residents to not suffer in silence this Christmas. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, support is available.

Domestic abuse can take many forms

It is important to remember that domestic abuse isn't just physical harm. Domestic abuse has many forms and includes controlling, coercive behaviour (such as threats, humiliation and intimidation), threatening or violent behaviour by a partner, ex-partner, family member or carer.

Know the signs of domestic abuse and seek help - for yourself or if you know someone who is a victim of domestic abuse. This could include:

• Unexplained jealousy of other relationships with friends or family

• Attempts to control yours or others finances

• Frequently checking on where you are and what you are doing

• Monitoring your mobile phone or social media accounts

• Discouraging you from seeing friends or family

• Encouraging you to stay at home or preventing you from leaving home without them

Impact on children

Children are particularly at-risk during Christmas as the school holidays can mean they are spending more time at home. Witnessing and/or experiencing domestic abuse can have a damaging impact on the development of children and young people.

From 2022 to 2023, the NSPCC helpline reported that it had received the highest number of domestic abuse contacts in the summer period (July-September).

Under the Domestic Abuse Act, children are classed as victims if they see, hear, or experience the effects of abuse and they are related to the victim or offender.

What do I do if a child reveals domestic abuse?

If a child speaks to you about domestic abuse, it is very important that you provide them with a safe space to share. You should let them know they have done the right thing by telling you, listen to them and understand them but do not push them for answers beyond what they are comfortable with. You should explain what you will do next and report what you've been told.

Do not confront the alleged abuser.

If the child is immediate danger, call 999.

If there is no immediate danger, you can report abuse to the Knowsley Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) on 0151 443 2600, by getting in contact with Childline or speaking to a trusted adult such as a teacher.

Cllr Shelley Powell, Knowsley Council Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Communities, said: "Although Christmas is a time of cheer for many of us, the stark reality of the increase in reports of domestic abuse show that for many people living in fear of their partner or a loved one continues.

"Many perpetrators will hide behind the pressure of Christmas as a reason for their abuse, this could be due to the costs associated with the festive season or increased drinking, but the truth is there is no excuse for domestic abuse.

"Along with our partners we are committed to tackling domestic abuse and we want all Knowsley residents to know support is available. Whether it's for yourself or support for someone else, you're not alone and help and support is available."

Where to go for help:

If you, your child, or someone you know is at immediate risk of harm, you should contact the police urgently, call 999. If you are not at immediate risk but are concerned, please contact one of the services listed below:

The First Step (Specialist Domestic Abuse Service)

Tel: 0151 548 3333

Website: www.thefirststep.org.uk

Knowsley Council Safer Communities Service (Specialist Domestic Abuse Service)
Tel: 0151 443 2610 (closed from 25 December - 2 January)

[email protected]

Knowsley Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub

Tel: 0151 443 2600

Savera UK

Helpline 0800 107 0726

www.saverauk.co.uk

Support is also available through:

• National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000 247

• Men's Advice Line 0808 801 0327

• LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline 0800 999 5428

• Women's Aid - Live chat to Women's Aid

Galop

Galop is the leading LGBT+ anti-violence and abuse charity, providing the National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline. They provide advice and support to individuals who have experienced hate crime, sexual violence, and domestic abuse and have an online referral form. They also offer a Trans Advocacy Service.

Website: www.galop.org.uk
Helpline: 0800 999 5428
Email: [email protected]

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