Victims of domestic abuse in the East Riding are being encouraged to seek advice and support during the Christmas period, when cases of domestic abuse tend to rise.
Residents who feel concerned for their own or someone else’s safety during the Christmas period are encouraged to reach out to the East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s Domestic Violence and Abuse Partnership (DVAP).
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.
They 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 works with those at risk, so they don’t face domestic abuse alone, and can receive help to improve their situation.
Councillor Lyn Healing, East Riding of Yorkshire Council cabinet member for communities and public protection said “We know there can be an increased risk of domestic abuse and violence over the festive period, with people spending more time in their homes.”
“The Christmas period can be used as a tactic to further harm and abuse, through the use of excuses such as financial pressures or the increased use of alcohol. Home should be a safe place not somewhere you feel scared.
“It is important that 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 24 hours a day, and in urgent matters the police should always be called on 999, if there is a belief of an immediate danger.”
Professional and self-referrals (calling about your own situation) can be made by calling 01482 396368 or email opsdvap@eastriding.gov.uk.
Over the festive period, DVAP will close Christmas Eve and reopen on xx January 2026 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.
