Humberside Police: 'Domestic abuse does not take a break at Christmas'

Humberside Police are issuing advice as they say domestic abuse does not take a break over Christmas.

It says whilst Christmas may be an exciting time for a lot of people, victims of Domestic Abuse are often subject to prolonged periods of physical and emotional abuse whilst at home with their partner.

The force said: "As always, for us tackling domestic abuse remains a top priority for the force. Domestic abuse can happen to anybody at any time, it is not discriminatory on age, sexual orientation, gender, background or religion.

"It is really important that if you are a victim of domestic abuse, you know that we are here to support and help you. Our staff are specialist trained, whether you ring our call centre or visit one of our police stations, you can speak to us without fear and in confidence.

"We also work with a number of supporting organisations and charities who can help us in guiding you with a way forward for you and your family, away from your abuser."

Make a safety plan

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, then it may help to make a safety plan, so that you know what to do if you need to.

If you’re in immediate danger, always call 999, other steps you can take to help protect yourself include:

• Tell someone you trust what is happening. You could also consider setting up a code word with a friend, family member or neighbour which they know means you need help. Arrange a safe place to go, where you know you can go if you need to leave quickly

• Plan your way out – if you need to leave, what’s the best way of getting out and away as quickly and safely as possible?

• Consider packing a bag with essential items such as medication, cash and your passport and leaving it with someone you trust.

• Make copies of keys and hide them in places you can get to easily.

• Always have a small amount of money on you – enough for a bus fare for example. Keep abusive letters, emails and texts as evidence.

• If you’re injured by your partner, always seek medical help. Not only do you ensure that you get the treatment you need but it will also ensure there is a record of the abuse if and when you’re ready to come forward.

• If arguments occur try and move to a space where the risk to you is lower. Stay away from kitchens, bathrooms and garages where there are likely to be things that could be used as weapons close to hand. Where possible, get to a room where there’s a window or external door where you can escape OR yell for help.

• Let your children know that your priority is for them to be safe. Teach them to get to a place of safety and dial 999.

• If you’re planning on leaving an abusive relationship, call a support agency and talk it through with them. They will help you to make a plan to get away as safely as possible. Think about staying safe online. Change passwords, delete social media profiles and create new, anonymous accounts, which have strong privacy settings.

With this in mind don't forget:

• Don’t use a name or nickname your partner would associate with you.

• Create new online shopping accounts and close down any existing ones.

• Make sure your passwords are not ones that you have previously used that your partner knows.

• Use a safe computer, which your partner has not had access to.

• Turn off geolocation in apps such as your camera, or find my phone.

• Don’t check into locations or use software that allows friends to find you.

Support is only a call away:

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: can be found by clicking here or you can email: DVAP@eastriding.gov.uk

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• Humberside Police
• east riding of yorkshire
• East Riding