All the ways to get help if you are in an abusive…

All the ways to get help if you are in an abusive relationship this Christmas

Police are urging people to get help if they are at risk of domestic violence this Christmas.

Merseyside Police experts say the festive period brings an increase in drinking and financial pressure within families, which can lead to physical abuse within relationships. It can also be a catalyst for psychological abuse, including coercive and controlling behaviour.

The force said it is reminding friends, family members and the wider community of the importance of "recognising the signs that someone may be suffering". Domestic abuse comes in many different forms and does not always mean physical violence, it can also be emotional, sexual, financial or psychological abuse.

Merseyside Police highlighted that it has specially trained officers to support victims, and those officers will be working throughout Christmas and New Year to help people experiencing, or at risk of, domestic abuse.

Detective Chief Inspector Lynsay Armbruster, from the Protecting Vulnerable People Unit, said: “We know this time of year can be particularly difficult for victims of domestic abuse and although making those first steps and reporting abuse can be daunting, there is support available, not just from Merseyside Police but partners too.

"Domestic abuse in any form is unacceptable and something no-one should have to tolerate. I want to encourage not only victims, but friends, family members and the wider community to come forward and report it if they suspect someone is suffering.

"There is a range of help available from specially trained officers in the forces Protecting Vulnerable People Unit, to IDVAs (Independent Domestic Violence Advisors) and numerous charities and organisations across Merseyside. If you can find the courage to come forward and report it, there are people ready to support you and treat you with compassion, respect and care.

"Christmas brings added pressures on family situations and mental health and no-one should be suffering in silence. If you need help, or know someone that does, please reach out."

To report domestic abuse you can contact @MerPolCC, report online - Report domestic abuse | Merseyside Police, via 101, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. In an emergency always call 999.

These are all the helplines available for anyone at risk of domestic or sexual abuse, or with related issues:

Worst Kept Secret

Merseyside helpline - Freephone 0800 028 3398

www.localsolutions.org.uk

Savera UK

Tackling domestic abuse within black and minority ethnic communities

Freephone 0800 107 0726 or 0151 709 6586*

*24 hour voicemail facility

www.saverauk.co.uk

Safe Place

Sexual assault referral centre for Merseyside

0151 295 3550*