When Christmas time gets tough

Christmas can be a stressful time, with many of us being short on time and with a mountain of things to get sorted.

For anyone experiencing domestic abuse, though, the stress doesn't stop once the presents arrive and dinner is on the table. It’s a time where they can feel even more trapped, fearful, and that they are forced to spend time in close proximity to an abuser.

It could be a partner, family member or someone else you live with – but no matter the relationship, the impact is still profound.

Not all children will be waking up to a happy home on Christmas Day, either.  If you, or someone you know is going through this, help is available.

You don’t have to suffer in silence. We are here to help and there are still people available and ready to speak to you and help over the holidays.

Speaking to the police:

If you are ready to report domestic abuse to us, we are here to listen and help.

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

To report an incident that isn’t an emergency situation call 101.

You can also report domestic abuse online: Report domestic abuse | Derbyshire Constabulary

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.

Seek support from our partners:

If you don't feel ready to report this, that's ok. There is a wide range of support available from our partners.

• The 24/7 Derbyshire Domestic Abuse support line is available on 08000 198 668
• 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.
• Derbyshire Sexual Assault Referral Centre: Available 24/7, 365 days a year on 0330 223 0099.
• The Elm Foundation will be open 9.30am-5pm Monday to Friday, excluding bank holidays.

You can also report domestic abuse anonymously.

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.

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 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.

If your wellbeing is taking a toll and you are feeling low because of Domestic Abuse, the following support services are here to help - please speak to them. Our officers can also refer you if you are struggling:

• Derbyshire Mental Health Helpline: Call 111 and select the 'mental health' option (option 2)
• Samaritans: 116 123
• Live Life Better Derbyshire: https://www.livelifebetterderbyshire.org.uk/home.aspx 
• Young Minds: Text 85258 or parents can call 0808 802 5544
• Papyrus: Call 0800 068 4141 or text 07860 039967

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.