Empowering Victim-Survivors of Domestic Abuse in Warwickshire: A Christmas Message of Hope and Support

If you are a victim-survivor residing in Warwickshire, please understand that there are community resources available to assist you and any dependents you might have.  

Domestic violence does not differentiate and can impact women, men, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and the elderly. The abuse may not manifest as physical harm. Various other forms of abuse exist, including technological, financial, coercive control, and sexual abuse. 

Councillor Andy Crump, Portfolio Holder for Fire and Community Safety stated: “There are services in Warwickshire that can assist you and any dependents in obtaining the support you require. No matter your situation, please take that vital first step in your support journey by contacting one of the numerous county services that are available to provide expert guidance. Rest assured, you will be heard, and the information you share will be treated with confidentiality.”  

Abigail Ampofo, Interim CEO of Refuge, expressed: “Contrary to widespread beliefs, Christmas does not trigger domestic abuse. In truth, domestic abuse occurs throughout the year due to perpetrators who make the choice to abuse, and their actions are solely at fault—not any external events or situations.” 

“However, we recognize that Christmas can be a particularly tough time for survivors who might be anxious about heightened financial strains and the seasonal unavailability of certain support services. Additionally, when survivors are in their homes with family—and potentially their abuser—it can be more challenging to seek support discreetly. Many survivors also feel obliged to maintain family unity during Christmas.” 

“We want survivors to know that Refuge is available to assist them 24/7, all year long. This includes our Warwickshire service, which offers tailored support to individuals of all genders, and access to refuges for survivors and their children to safely escape their abusers at any time of the year.” 

Refuge’s Warwickshire Helpline is accessible Monday to Friday (8:30 AM – 8:30 PM) by calling 0800 408 1552, except on bank holidays. For assistance outside these hours, the National Domestic Abuse Helpline is available around the clock at 0808 2000 247, and confidential live chat is available online via www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk.

Families, friends, and neighbours can offer substantial support to victim-survivors contemplating leaving their abuser. You can assist them with the following actions:  

• Connect with the victim-survivor and approach them offering assistance. This could involve helping with tasks such as grocery shopping or childcare, in addition to providing them with space and time to converse with you.  

• Collaborate with the victim-survivor to formulate a safety strategy that includes any dependents (like children or siblings) in case the violence escalates. This should involve keeping contact numbers of neighbours, friends, and family who can be called for help; preparing important documents, money, and a few personal belongings ready for a quick exit if necessary; devising a plan on how they can leave the premises safely and seek assistance.  

• Always ensure that they maintain discretion so that their partner or family members remain unaware and their safety is preserved. 

• Gather valuable information alongside the victim-survivor that includes details on support services, contact information for social workers, child protection, the nearest police station, and shelters. 

Detective Chief Inspector Martyn Kendall from Warwickshire Police remarked: “Domestic incidents comprise a notable proportion of our workload throughout the year; however, regrettably, we often observe an uptick in occurrences during Christmas.

“As families spend more time together, people frequently drink more and face added pressures at home, which can lead to heightened tensions and an increase in domestic incidents. These situations can involve not only partners but also parents, children, and siblings.

“Domestic abuse is not always characterized by physical violence. It can also be sexual, psychological, or financial in nature. Frequently, those experiencing such abuse do not recognize that they are victims.” 

“Regardless of the circumstances and the time of year, there is no justification for such behavior—domestic abuse in any form will not be accepted.” 

“We want victims to understand that we are here for them, and we will provide support. You are not alone. Please connect with the police or one of the available support organizations – we will do everything in our power to protect you and ensure that the abuser is brought to justice.” 

“I also encourage friends and family who become aware of domestic abuse to seek advice on how to offer support.” 

For details regarding local and national services, including advice and assistance, please visit www.talk2someone.org.uk. If you believe someone’s life may be at risk, please call 999.