Domestic Abuse Doesn’t Take a Break at Christmas

While Christmas can be a time of joy, connection, and celebration for many, it can also be an incredibly difficult and dangerous time for people experiencing domestic abuse.

For some, the festive season brings increased pressure — financial stress, more time spent with family or ex-partners, and higher alcohol consumption can all contribute to a rise in emotional, psychological, and physical abuse. Sadly, we often see an increase in domestic abuse disclosures and incidents over the holiday period.

At times when everyone else is celebrating, many people are struggling in silence. This can include adults and children living with ongoing abuse — whether that’s physical violence, coercive control, psychological or financial abuse, or any form of behaviour intended to intimidate, isolate, or harm.

Domestic Abuse Can Happen to Anyone
Domestic abuse does not discriminate. It affects people of all:

• genders and sexual orientations
• ages
• ethnicities
• backgrounds
• religions

No one deserves to be abused — and no one should have to face it alone.

Emergency Services- If you are in immediate danger, always call 999.
24/7 Free Helplines: These services are confidential, non-judgmental, and can help you explore your options and safety planning:

• National Domestic Abuse Helpline (Refuge): 0808 2000 247- Free, 24/7, confidential support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse.
• Men’s Advice Line: 0808 801 0327 - Confidential support for men experiencing domestic abuse.
• Galop – LGBTQ+ Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0800 999 5428 or website here

Local Support Services

• DVAP (Domestic Violence Advocacy Project)Independent advocacy and support for people experiencing domestic abuse.
• Hull Domestic Abuse Partnership (Hull DAP) :Support, advice, and safety planning for those affected by domestic abuse in Hull.
• Women’s Aid National charity supporting women and children affected by domestic abuse.
• Preston Road Women’s Centre– Domestic Abuse Support Local specialist support for women in the community.
• (Please check the organisation websites for the most up-to-date contact details and support options.)

What You Can Do

• Reach out: Talk to someone you trust or contact a helpline.
• Make a safety plan: Helplines can help you plan safe ways to leave or manage risk.
• Keep evidence safe: Journal incidents if possible, and save supportive messages.
• You are not weak for asking for help — you are brave.
  
  

Humberside Police- We Stand With You — You Are Not Alone

Our commitment to supporting victims and protecting vulnerable people does not stop for Christmas. We work closely with specialist organisations and local services who provide advice, safety planning, emotional support, and practical help for people affected by abuse. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, help is available. You do not need to wait for a crisis — reaching out for support is a strong and important first step.

Our Commitment: Our teams — including safeguarding, community development, and vulnerability support — continue to work with partners across statutory and voluntary sectors to offer advice, make referrals, and support people toward safety and wellbeing. You are not alone, and there is help available — even over the holidays.

Please take care of yourself and those you care about this season. If you need support, reach out today — we are here to help.