Domestic abuse: don't suffer in silence this Christmas

Christmas can be a stressful time, particularly for victims of domestic abuse, where being home for the holidays may feel unsafe.

If you’re a victim of domestic violence, please don’t suffer in silence – there are still people available and ready to help over the festive period.

Both our emergency and non-emergency call handlers, and officers, will be working over Christmas and the New Year and will be available 24/7. To get help in an emergency, always dial 999 – or to report an incident that isn’t an emergency situation call 101. You can also report domestic abuse online at: Report domestic abuse | Derbyshire Constabulary

You can also contact the 24/7 Derbyshire Domestic Abuse support line on 08000 198 668, or the National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 2000 247. There’s also more information on the National Domestic Violence Helpline's website, www.nationaldomesticviolencehelpline.org.uk.

Maybe you have concerns about a friend, a family member or a colleague who you feel may be experiencing abuse. If you spot changes in the way they are behaving, start a conversation with them, listen to them and support and believe them. You could also suggest further help.

If you know someone who is committing abuse, and you don’t feel safe about confronting them, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously, by calling 0800 555 111 for free or by filling in a quick and easy online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

If the situation is currently taking place, and someone is in danger, you should always call 999.

Remember: there is never an excuse for domestic abuse.

Domestic abuse can affect anyone, both men and women, and whether it is physical, emotional or sexual, help and support is available, and not just from us.

We take domestic abuse seriously and are dedicated to listening to our feedback and implementing this to provide the best possible service for anyone experiencing this.