Last year 2.4 million people in England and Wales were victims of domestic abuse, which equates to 1 in 5 adults. It is likely someone you know will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime.
Domestic abuse, also called domestic violence, includes emotional, physical and sexual abuse. It commonly occurs between couples and family members, but it can happen to anyone.
Domestic abuse can also happen from someone you do not know. This could be a stranger online or someone in the street.
Reports of domestic abuse increase during the festive season. This can be due to increased stress, alcohol consumption and financial pressure, which may be worse this year due to the cost of living crisis. The abuser may use Christmas as a way to justify their behaviour, but it should never be tolerated.
Make yourself heard
If you are in danger, please call 999 immediately.
If you cannot speak freely listen to the questions from the operator and respond by coughing of tapping on the phone if you can. If you cannot do this, press 55 and the operator will know the call is genuine and will put you through to the police.
Support available
National Centre for Domestic Violence – 0800 270 9070 or text NCDV to 60777
National Domestic Abuse Helpline for women – 0808 2000 247
Men’s Advice Line – 0808 8010327 or info@mensadviceline.org.uk
Women’s Aid – Live chat or helpline@womensaid.org.uk
Mankind – 01823 334244
GALOP LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0800 999 5428
Karma Nirvana for those forced into marriage and honour crimes – 0800 5999 247. You can also contact Gov.uk Forced Marriage Unit on 020 7008 0151.
You can also talk to your doctor, health visitor or midwife.
If you decide to leave
Before you decide to leave, please try and get advice from one of the organisations above. Women’s aid have created a Survivor’s Handbook which can also help.
Signs to look out for if you think a friend or family member is being abused
Physical
- Broken bones
- Bruises
- Cuts
- Limping
- Changes to their appearance – for example the way they dress, whether they now wear less/more makeup and changes to their weight.
Practical
- They are unable to leave the house.
- They have no control over their finances and cannot access their bank account.
- They cannot talk or answer the phone.
- They no longer socialise, go to college or work.
Behavioural
- They appear uncomfortable, tense or nervous.
- They are angry or irritable
- They use unhealthy coping mechanisms such as alcohol, drugs or self-harm.
You can find more information on the NHS website and on our Domestic Abuse page.