December 21, 2020 - 833 views
Domestic abuse and sexual violence will not go away over this festive period.
Times of crisis can result in an increase in incidents of domestic violence, and Christmas and the holiday period may be a time of dread, fear and isolation for victims of violence and abuse.
While Covid-19 and restrictions have not caused domestic abuse to happen, evidence shows that being shut behind closed doors with abusers, 24 hours a day, has made things worse, and increased the risk to victims and survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence.
The Deputy Minister and Chief Whip, Jane Hutt, today asked friends and neighbours to look out for signs of domestic abuse, and encouraged victims and survivors to seek help and escape from their homes if necessary.
Jane Hutt said: "Now, more than ever, I urge communities, friends, neighbours, postal workers and delivery drivers across Wales to look out for others in the community, and to act as the eyes and ears for victims of abuse who need help.
"Please look behind the Christmas lights and present deliveries, and if you see fear in the eyes the other side of the door, you can help by calling 999 in an emergency, or the Live Fear Free helpline. You could be saving a life.
"Specialist services remain open and are available to help victims of violence or abuse throughout the Christmas period. Perpetrator services, which work to prevent incidents of domestic abuse from happening, also remain open and will continue to provide support.
"You will not be in trouble if you need to leave your home to seek help at any time, and specialist services are open and operating, refuges will take referrals, and support is available to help you.
"I want to emphasise this – if you are in danger or need to leave your home to escape domestic abuse, you should do so – you will not be in trouble. You can travel wherever necessary, and specialist services can help find you suitable emergency accommodation and support.
"Police forces right across Wales are responding to domestic abuse and sexual violence callouts. If is not safe for victims to speak, police will respond to a silent 999 call – dial 999, followed by 55 when the operator answers to indicate that you can’t talk, but need help.
"The Live Fear Free helpline is open 24 hours a day, every day, including Christmas and the New Year, for support and advice. Home shouldn’t be a place of fear. Support is available. You are not alone."
If you are experiencing abuse, or suspect someone you know is being abused, then please don’t suffer in silence; help is available. I would urge you to call the Live Fear Free helpline, and always call 999 in an emergency.
