For many, the New Year brings a sense of reflection and fresh starts. But for others, it can be a time when concerns that have been building over weeks or months come into sharper focus. Each year, Somerset Council’s Domestic Abuse Service sees an increase in calls and requests for support at the start of the year.
This rise is not unexpected. Periods of pressure, isolation and disruption can leave lasting impacts, and once routines return, people may feel more able or more compelled to seek help.
Why do calls increase in the New Year?
Although the festive season has passed, its effects can linger. For many people, the pressures and dynamics experienced over Christmas don’t simply disappear when January arrives. Instead, they can become harder to ignore once daily routines resume.
There are several reasons why more people reach out for support at this time of year:
- The festive period can intensify controlling or abusive behaviour due to increased time spent together
- Financial pressures following Christmas can heighten stress and conflict
- Isolation during the holidays may limit access to friends, work colleagues and support networks
- New Year reflection can prompt people to recognise that what they experienced over the festive season wasn’t okay
- Practical barriers, such as lack of privacy during holidays, can delay contact until January
For many, reaching out in the New Year is the first opportunity they have had to do so safely and privately.
You don’t have to be in crisis to reach out
Support is available whether someone is experiencing abuse now, worried about things escalating, or simply unsure how to describe what’s happening. Conversations do not have to start with clear answers – they can begin with uncertainty.
People contact the service for many reasons, including:
- “This is what’s happening to me, is this abuse?”
- “I’m not sure what my options are”
- “I just need to talk to someone”
- “I’m worried about someone else”
There is no expectation to take any action unless and until it feels right.
Support available in Somerset
Help and support for people experiencing domestic abuse is available through the Somerset Domestic Abuse Service.
Call: 0800 69 49 999 (8am–8pm, 7 days a week bank holidays)
Email: domesticabuseservice@somerset.gov.uk
If you are in immediate danger, call 999. If you cannot speak, press 55 when prompted – this will connect you to the police through the Silent Solution system.
For those who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired, register with emergencySMS.net to text 999 in an emergency. If you use British Sign Language (BSL), you can contact 999 BSL for BSL support.
The service also offers in-person support at the central hub in Yeovil and at locations throughout the county. For more information go to: Community drop-ins
If you plan to attend in person, please call 0800 69 49 999 and select option 2 beforehand so the team know to expect you and can provide directions.
Support is confidential, non-judgemental and led by what each individual needs.
If you’re worried about someone else
You don’t need to have all the answers to help. Sometimes sharing information, listening without judgement, or encouraging someone to contact support can make a real difference.
The service is also there for professionals, friends and family who are concerned about someone they know.
A message for the New Year
If the start of the year feels difficult, you’re not alone – and it doesn’t have to stay this way. Help is available, conversations are confidential, and support can begin at your pace.
Reaching out can feel daunting, but it can also be the first step towards feeling safer, supported and heard.
If you or someone you know needs support, help is here.
