The Force serving the East Riding often see a rise in domestic abuse over the festive season, and say tackling it remains a top priority.
With an increase in alcohol consumption, financial pressures and ex-partners coming together over the festive period, this can often lead to prolonged periods of emotional and physical abuse within relationships and homes. Christmas can be a very difficult time for families, and Police recognise that a number of people are affected by a form of abuse each year, many of whom are children and young people.
Domestic abuse can happen to anybody at any time, it is not discriminatory on age, sexual orientation, gender, background or religion. Officers say they work with a range of supporting organisations and charities who can help in guiding you with a way forward for you and your family, away from your abuser.
Officers and staff within the DASIT (Domestic Abuse Safeguarding Investigation Team) and PVP (Protecting Vulnerable People) teams have a clear focus on protecting the most vulnerable in our communities and look at the best course of action against any suspect or offender.
As well as domestic abuse, Police also continue to support victims of harassment and stalking. Stalking amounts to any behaviour which brings persistent and unwanted attention, whether that be in person or online – this is also known as cyberstalking.
These are extremely intrusive crimes which relate to similar but different offences that can cause victims, their families and loved ones physical, psychological, and emotional harm.
It is really important that if you are affected by these offences, you know that Police are here to support and help you. Their staff are specialist trained, whether you ring the call centre or visit police stations, you can speak to officers without fear and in confidence.
Chief Inspector, Nicola Roworth, Lead for Domestic Abuse said:
“Protecting vulnerable people continues to remain a high priority for us as a force, and that does not change during the festive season.
“For some people, Christmas can be the most feared time of the year. A combination of financial pressure, alcohol consumption and extended time at home with the family can often fuel abusive relationships so we want to do everything we can to support those who may be suffering.
“Each year, cases of domestic abuse, continue to rise over the festive period. Domestic abuse can take many forms; it isn’t just about sexual or physical abuse. It also includes financial, coercive control or emotional abuse, digital or online or honour-related abuse such as forced marriage or Female Genital Mutation (FGM).
“Stalking and harassment can amount to any behaviour which brings persistent and unwanted attention, whether in person or psychologically, including what is known as cyberstalking.
“We want to reassure vulnerable people that we are on hand to help. Working with partner agencies, we have specialist staff available to signpost or offer vital help and support to you, your friend or anyone affected to break the cycle and get away from violent and controlling partners.
“We take all incidents extremely seriously and we would encourage anyone who believes they have been a victim or witness domestic abuse, in any form, to contact us as soon as possible. To report domestic abuse call us on 101 or if you’re in immediate danger, always call us on 999.”
Service hours of partner agencies during the Christmas and New Year period
East Riding
Prevention of Domestic Abuse Service (PODAS) can be contacted via telephone on 01482 396708 or 396706.
Domestic Violence and Abuse Partnership (DVAP): Helpline: 01482 396368
Website: www.eastriding.gov.uk/living/crime-and-community-safety/domestic-violence/
Email: DVAP@eastriding.gov.uk
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