Support available throughout the festive period for victims of domestic abuse

Victims of domestic abuse in the East Riding are being encouraged to seek advice and support should they feel concerned for their own or someone else’s safety during the Christmas period.

At what should be a joyful time of the year, cases of domestic abuse tend to see a rise during the festive period due to many contributing factors.

If you are a victim, or if you suspect you know a victim, we want you to know that help is available.

Councillor Kerri Harold, portfolio holder for public health and tackling inequalities at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “It is well known now that whilst the Christmas and New Year festivities are a joyous time for many, some people will be worried about what the next few weeks will bring.

“Cases of domestic abuse/violence do tend to spike over this time of year with people spending more time in their homes.

“Domestic abuse is an abuse of power and control; the Christmas period can be used as a tactic to further harm and abuse by using excuses such as the financial pressures or the increased use of alcohol.  Home should be a safe place not somewhere you feel scared.

“It is important that those victims of domestic abuse know they are supported and know where they can go for advice or support. The council’s DVAP Website Options Advisor provides safety information and is available 24 hours a day whilst for more urgent matters, you should always call 999 if you believe you are in immediate danger.”

Domestic Violence and Abuse Partnership (DVAP) (East Riding)

The East Riding Domestic Violence and Abuse Partnership (DVAP) provide support for victims of domestic abuse, children and individuals struggling with their behaviour in their personal relationships that may be or is at risk of being abusive.

DVAP provide consent-based support for victims of domestic abuse, where information will only be shared with consent, unless there are concerns about risk of harm to children or serious criminal offences being committed.

The team will work with you so that you don’t face domestic abuse alone and to help make the situation safer for you.

Generally, professional and self-referrals (calling about your own situation) can be made by calling 01482 396368 or email opsdvap@eastriding.gov.uk. Detailed below are the alternative arrangements for the Christmas period:

• DVAP will close Christmas Eve and reopen on 4 January 2022 for general advice and support.
• The DVAP team, work with housing for anyone placed in temporary accommodation due to domestic abuse and will offer emotional support to those dispersed from home.

If you need immediate support in an emergency or are concerned for your own or someone else’s immediate safety, please always ring the Police on 999.

Alternatively, you can ring the Police for a non-emergency on 101.

The DVAP Website Options Advisor also provides safety information which is available on their website 24 hours a day - www.eastriding.gov.uk/living/crime-and-community-safety/domestic-violence/domestic-violence-adult-services/

- For emotional support, you can contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247. Alternatively, for practical and emotional support, please contact Women’s Aid Live Chat 10am – 6pm seven days a week.

- You can also reach the National Centre for Domestic Violence on 0800 270 9070 or text NCDV to 60777.

- Male victims of domestic abuse can call 01823 334244 to speak to ManKind, an initiative available for male victims of domestic abuse and domestic violence across the UK as well as their friends, family, neighbours, work colleagues and employers.

- Alternatively, the Men's Advice Line can be reached at 0808 8010327, or emailed at info@mensadviceline.org.uk.

- The National LGBT Domestic Abuse Helpline is 0800 999 5428

Childline

Anyone aged under 19 can call Childline for support on a range of issues, whether they are living in a house where domestic abuse is happening or experiencing it themselves.

The charity's phone lines are available 24/7 on 0800 111 111.

The Blue Door

Offering support for people in North and North East Lincolnshire who have been a victim of domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Although based on the south bank, they also work with victims in the Hull and East Riding area.

Contact the helpline on 0800 197 47 87, at their office on (01724) 841 947 or email info@thebluedoor.org .

Refuge

The UK's national and leading charity for victim's of domestic abuse and violence.

Refuge offers a 24-hour helpline as well as help fleeing abuse and advice on your legal rights.

Contact them at any time of day or night on 0808 2000 247.

Karma Nirvana

Help and support for women and girls who have been victims of honour-based abuse or forced marriages.

You can contact their helpline on 0800 5999 247.