Christmas and New Year are mostly associated with peace, goodwill and fun, but research also suggests that this time of year can bring with it a significant increase in instances of domestic abuse.
An increase in alcohol consumption, coupled with stress and debt worries over the Christmas period are thought to be contributory factors to the increase in instances of domestic abuse.
The Safer Caerphilly Community Safety Partnership is keen to highlight that help is available to victims of domestic abuse and their families, along with the message, ‘Please do not suffer in silence’.
Help is at hand from the Safer Caerphilly Multi Agency Centre (MAC), Caerphilly county borough’s one-stop-shop for victims of domestic abuse and their families, together with the Wales Domestic Abuse Helpline.
The aim of the Multi Agency Centre is to minimise the number of agencies that victims of domestic abuse need to approach in order to get the help they need.
Since the MAC opened in February 2007, it has received hundreds of referrals for help and advice. There are a wide range of services available at the centre, including: –
- Safer Caerphilly Community Safety Partnership
- Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Social Services
- Aneurin Bevan Local Health Board
- Caerphilly Women’s Aid
- Black Association of Women Step Out (BAWSO)
- Victim Support
Cllr Lyn Ackerman, cabinet member for the environment said, “Christmas for most is a time of fun and family. However, for some the emotional strain of the season can unfortunately contribute to a rise in domestic abuse.
Compounded by money worries, increased alcohol consumption and the stresses and strains of Christmas, tensions can reach boiling point at this time of year for people in an abusive relationship.
I would urge anyone who does experience domestic abuse over Christmas and New Year or indeed at any other time of the year, to seek help and support – there are people that can help.”
If you, or someone you know is affected by domestic abuse, please call the Safer Caerphilly MAC on 01443 819 317. Outside office hours, please call the 24 hour Wales Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 80 10 800. In an emergency always dial 999.
