Many people associate Christmas with joy and family. But for those experiencing domestic abuse, the holidays can be a stressful and dangerous time. Statistics show a 15% increase in domestic abuse cases during the Christmas period, with many going unreported.

Why Does Domestic Abuse Increase at Christmas?

• Increased Alcohol Consumption: Festive celebrations often involve more drinking, which can heighten aggression in abusive relationships.
• Financial Strain: The pressure to buy gifts and host gatherings can lead to arguments and tension.
• Extended Family Commitments: Large family gatherings and obligations can add stress and trigger abusive behavior.
• Reduced Safeguards: School closures and holidays mean fewer opportunities for victims to seek help or escape the home environment.

What is Domestic Abuse?

Domestic abuse is any incident or pattern of controlling, coercive, threatening, violent, or abusive behavior between intimate partners or family members. It can be physical, sexual, psychological, emotional, financial, or digital.

Here are some of the different types of Domestic Abuse:

• Physical Abuse: Hitting, punching, kicking, slapping, choking, or using objects as weapons.
• Sexual Abuse: Unwanted touching, sexual assault, rape, or pressuring someone into sexual activity.
• Psychological or Emotional Abuse: Gaslighting, name-calling, manipulation, threats, and intimidation.
• Verbal Abuse: Constant yelling, swearing, insults, and derogatory remarks.
• Financial Abuse: Controlling someone’s finances, denying them access to money, or taking out loans in their name.
• Coercive Control: Monitoring someone’s activities, isolating them from friends and family, and controlling their decisions.
• Online or Digital Abuse: Using technology to harass, stalk, or monitor someone.
• Harassment and Stalking: Repeated unwanted contact, following someone, or damaging their property.

You are not alone! If you are experiencing domestic abuse, here are some steps you can take:

• Contact Support Helplines: Valley House offers confidential support 24/7 on 0800 328 9084.
• Prepare Essential Documents: Secure passports, IDs, birth certificates, and financial records in a safe place.
• Develop an Exit Plan: Identify a safe place to go if you need to leave urgently.
• Inform Trusted Contacts: Tell a friend, family member, or GP about your situation.
• Seek Legal Advice: Understand your rights and options for protection.
• Call the Police: If you are in immediate danger, call 999.

Valley House Can Help:

Valley House provides safe accommodation and a range of support services for survivors of domestic abuse, including:

• Accommodation: We offer self-contained, family, and shared housing options for individuals and families fleeing abuse.
• Support Services: Signposting, advocacy, risk assessment,  support groups, and more.
• We Support Everyone: We offer culturally specific support, programmes for BAME, LGBT, older people, and those with disabilities.

**Don’t suffer in silence this Christmas. Valley House is here for you.

Contact Us:

• Referral Line: 0800 328 9084 (24/7)
• Email: referrals@valleyhouse.org.uk
• Website: www.valleyhouse.org.uk/self-referrals-valley-house/

Remember, you are not alone. Help is available.