Information for victims of domestic abuse

Family arrangements at Christmas time can increase pressure in relationships that are already volatile and so, sadly, there is usually a spike in domestic abuse reports over the holiday period. Unfortunately, in this pandemic year, many families have been feeling heightened anxiety for many months and are now potentially contending with last minute changes in Christmas arrangements. So the risks of domestic abuse are elevated.

However, it is also the right time for me to remind both men and women that domestic abuse does not have to be tolerated. Should you find yourself in an abusive situation, and you are fearful for your own safety, family members’ safety or the safety of your property, then you should dial 999 and call the Police. The Police are significantly better in dealing with domestic abuse issues than they were some years ago and most Forces have a Domestic Abuse Team that should be able to assist.

In addition to the Police, or in substitution for the Police, there are also several organisations I would recommend you contact, if you are the victim of domestic abuse.

If you reside in North Yorkshire, then you should consider contacting IDAS (www.idas.org.uk).

If you live in the East Riding of Yorkshire, then you should contact DVAP, which can be accessed via the East Riding of Yorkshire Council website at www.eastriding.gov.uk/living/crime-and-community-safety/domestic-violence/domestic-violence-adult-services

Both organisations have useful guides on how to deal with issues as well as offering counselling for those that are worst affected.

In addition to these two organisations, there is Women’s Aid (www.womensaid.org.uk). There is also Refuge (www.refuge.org.uk)  who assist women and children in respect of domestic abuse issues.

Domestic violence is not just limited to women being abused; men are also abused. Both IDAS and DVAP are not gender specific; Women’s Aid and Refuge assist women and children only.

If you are a man suffering domestic abuse, you should not be embarrassed about it and you should still seek help. Two Agencies that specialise in assisting male victims of domestic abuse are www.mankind.org.uk and mensadviceline.org.uk

Whether you are male or female, if you are suffering abuse please take steps to end it now. Seek advice from one of the Agencies referred to above and also seek advice from a legally qualified practitioner who will be able to advise on whether or not you have the ability to obtain a civil order such as a non molestation order, an occupation order (commonly called injunctions).  At Harrowells, we have an experienced Family Team that would be able to guide you through the process and support you through a difficult time.