January is historically one of The Elm Foundation’s busiest periods, The stresses and tensions that build up over the Christmas period often escalate to a rise in domestic abuse incidences for victims and survivors. A period that should be filled with family fun and happiness, is often a time that is overshadowed by threats, fear and abuse.
This year, the first restriction-free Christmas since Covid 19; has piled further pressure on families to create a “perfect” festive period. This pressure combined with the usual stresses linked to Christmas, an increase in alcohol consumption and the cost-of-living crisis has made this year particularly hard for victims of domestic abuse.
At Christmas time, it becomes easier for abusers to excuse abusive behaviour on the stresses of the period. The excessive consumption of alcohol, for some, acts as a justifier for abusive acts. We must remember that abuse is a choice. Many of us feel stressed and tense over the Christmas period. At times, we might drink a bit too much. Most of us don’t go on to hurt and abuse the people we love though.
The cost-of-living crisis is affecting many of us and has made this Christmas really tough. Women’s Aid surveyed victims and survivors last summer, 73% said that the cost-of-living crisis had either made it harder for them to leave an abusive partner or prevented them from doing so altogether. Since Christmas, more victims will be faced with the financial hardship that is compounded by the cost-of-living crisis forcing them to stay in their abusive relationships.
If you or someone you know has suffered over the Christmas period and wants to talk to someone about what they can do next, we are here to help.
Staff at the Derbyshire Domestic abuse helpline and across our services at The Elm Foundation are here and ready to help anyone experiencing domestic abuse who would like support. Christmas may have been the tipping point for a victim to seek advice.
Abuse may have escalated to a point where a victim feels ready to leave. We are here for you. Our domestic abuse support staff offer non-judgmental support. We can help you make safe choices about your relationship. Provide advice support and help victims and survivors take back control and live free from abuse.
Contact us via the Derbyshire DA Helpline by calling 08000198668 or by texting 07534617252 or by visiting https://www.derbyshiredomesticabusehelpline.co.uk/
