Victims of domestic abuse are being encouraged to seek support during the Christmas period.
East Riding of Yorkshire Council said anyone who felt concerned for their own or someone else’s safety could get advice from its Domestic Violence and Abuse Partnership (DVAP).
The council said cases of domestic abuse “tend to rise” over Christmas as people spend more time at home.
Councillor Lyn Healing, cabinet member for communities and public protection, said: “The Christmas period can be used as a tactic to further harm and abuse, through excuses such as financial pressures or the increased use of alcohol. Home should be a safe place not somewhere you feel scared.”
DVAP provides support for victims of domestic abuse, children and individuals struggling with their behaviour in relationships that may be or is at risk of being abusive.
The authority said the service provided consent-based support for victims, meaning information would only be shared with consent, unless there were concerns about risk of harm to children or serious criminal offences being committed.
Safety information is available 24 hours a day via the DVAP website and “immediate danger” should be reported to the police.
Other helpline numbers:
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0808 2000247
- Women’s Aid Live Chat is available 10:00 GMT to 18:00 seven days a week
- National Centre for Domestic Violence – 0800 2709070 or text NCDV to 60777
- ManKind – for male victims of domestic abuse – 01823 334244
- Men’s Advice Line - 0808 8010327, or email info@mensadviceline.org.uk
- The National LGBT Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0800 9995428
- Childline – 24-hour support for anyone aged under 19 – 0800 111111
- The Blue Door – although based in North and North East Lincolnshire, they also work with victims in the Hull and East Riding area – 0800 1974787, 01724 841947 or email info@thebluedoor.org
- Refuge offers a 24-hour helpline – 0808 2000247
- Karma Nirvana – help and support for women and girls who have been victims of honour-based abuse or forced marriages – 0800 5999247.
Healing added: “It is important that victims of domestic abuse know where they can go for advice or support.”