For most, the Christmas period is a time of happiness and immense fun. We can enjoy a well-earned break from work, spend some time with our families and loved ones, and over-indulge in treats, drink and fine food. We can watch movies and box sets, listen to the Queen’s speech and create lasting fond memories. Sounds perfect doesn’t it?
Unfortunately, this is not the case for everyone, and the Christmas period is actually a time that many people come to dread and fear. There is something about Christmas and the winter months that appears to bring out both the best and worst in people. Some people thrive during this time of the year, whilst others descend into a mire of violence and abuse and simply cannot cope. Increased stress and financial pressures, excess intake of alcohol, disastrous Christmas parties, family problems and being forced to spend time with those who may be close but not necessarily safe, can all translate into an increase of domestic abuse.
Herts Police say “looking at the last two years, it is apparent that the weeks immediately before Christmas appear to show that offence levels are fairly consistent but then significantly rise during the last week of the year, from about the 26th Dec onwards. This would perhaps indicate lower levels reported on Christmas Day and Boxing Day but then a spike in reporting immediately afterwards and into the New Year. So perhaps there is reluctance of victims reporting offences on the main two days of Christmas but who then come forward to report it afterwards.”
Perpetrators of domestic abuse will be abusive throughout the year and this doesn’t just stop over the festive period. If anything, perpetrators may escalate abuse and use the lack of support services available to their advantage. With schools, workplaces, GP surgeries and other ‘safe places’ closed or running on skeleton staff, it is much more difficult for survivors to access help should they need it.
For those experiencing economic abuse, the run-up to Christmas with its expectations and additional expenses can be particularly hard, and after another challenging financial year, with lockdowns, furlough and the impact of the pandemic on personal and family finances, this year does come with additional pressures.
St Albans and Hertsmere women’s refuge, a local women’s refuge said “Christmas is a difficult time for households where there is domestic abuse. Our services continue to open and available for victims of domestic abuse and violence throughout the festive season. Many victims often try to manage the festive period as they feel guilty about fleeing because of the children. Refuge over Christmas is a safe fun environment and for our families we ensure that the houses are decorated and there are festive goodies and gifts for everyone. If you need help or support over the festive season please call 03301 025811 24/7”
Last year the Helpline received 133 calls and emails in December in comparison to 189 calls and emails during the month of January. Our email service is vital during the holidays for those in need of support, who may not be able to find a safe space to talk on the phone.
Our phone lines are open 7 days a week, 9am to 9pm weekdays and 9am to 4pm on weekends.
Helpline no. 08 088 088 088
Email. kim@mailpurple.org