10 December 2008
Christmas and the New Year are mostly associated with peace, goodwill and fun, but research suggests that there also tends to be a significant increase in instances of domestic abuse during these times.
An increase in alcohol consumption, debt and stress over the Christmas period are thought to be contributory factors to the increase in instances of domestic abuse.
The Safer Caerphilly Community Safety Partnership is keen to highlight that help is available to victims of domestic abuse and their families in the Caerphilly county borough, along with the message: "Please do not suffer in silence."
Help is at hand from the Safer Caerphilly Multi Agency Centre (MAC), which is a one-stop-shop for victims of domestic abuse and their families.
The aim of the centre is to minimise the number of agencies that victims of domestic abuse need to approach in order to get the help they need.
Since the MAC opened in February 2007, it has received more than 200 referrals for help and advice. There are a wide range of services available at the centre, including:
- Safer Caerphilly Community Safety Partnership
- Caerphilly County Borough Council's Social Services
- Gwent Police
- Caerphilly teaching Local Health Board
- Gwent Healthcare NHS Trust
- Caerphilly Women's Aid
- Black Association of Women Step Out (BAWSO)
- Victim Support
Cllr Lyn Ackerman, cabinet member for the environment said, "Christmas for most is a time of fun and family. However, for some the emotional strain of the season can unfortunately contribute to a rise in domestic abuse.
Compounded by money worries, increased alcohol consumption and the stresses of Christmas, tensions can reach boiling point at this time of year for people in an abusive relationship.
Please do remember that domestic abuse is a crime and there are alternatives to staying in an abusive relationship.
I would urge anyone who does experience domestic abuse over Christmas and New Year or indeed at any other time of the year, to get in touch with the Safer Caerphilly MAC – there are people that can help".
Cabinet Member for Social Services, Cllr Judith Pritchard said, "Domestic abuse is distressing and upsetting for everyone involved, but the significant harm it can cause children is greatly underestimated.
If you experience domestic abuse, I would urge you to keep yourself and your family safe by calling the Safer Caerphilly MAC. There are people there who will support you and your family and will help to keep you all protected from harm."
If you, or someone you know is affected by domestic abuse, please call the Safer Caerphilly MAC on 01443 819 317.
Outside office hours, please call Caerphilly Women's Aid's 24 hour helpline on 02920 860 255 or the 24 hour Wales Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 80 10 800. In an emergency always dial 999.
- Return to News