The new year often brings a surge in people reaching out for help with domestic abuse. January is a time when many individuals reflect on their situations and take the difficult step of seeking support. This trend, sadly, is not a new one, but understanding the reasons behind it can help us raise awareness and offer timely assistance to those in need.

The festive period: a pressure cooker environment

For many, the festive season is a joyful time of celebration. However, for people experiencing domestic abuse, it can intensify feelings of isolation, fear, and despair. The pressures of financial strain, increased alcohol consumption, and enforced time together can increase tensions, create a volatile environment, leading to an escalation of abusive behaviours.

In such situations, people often feel they must endure until the festivities are over, delaying their decision to seek support. January provides the opportunity for many to step back, reflect and take action.

The impact of a fresh start

The start of a new year symbolises fresh beginnings. This can motivate individuals to take steps to change their lives, including reaching out for help. The realisation that the abusive behaviour is not a one-off occurrence, but part of an ongoing pattern often crystallises during this time.

What support is available?

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, there are services available to provide help and guidance. These include:

• Helpline: Confidential advice and support, often available via telephone, email or webchat.
• Safe accommodation services: Safe spaces for people and their children, such as refuge or other accommodation with specialist support
• Counselling and support groups: Opportunities to rebuild confidence and gain emotional support.
• Legal advice: Guidance on protection orders and other legal options.
• Community drop-ins: Community Drop-In gives you the opportunity to talk directly with the Somerset Domestic Abuse Service.
• If you choose to stay: Leaving your home is not always the only or best option. You can receive support to help you stay safe in your own home
• Support for those causing harm: Support is available to anyone aged 16 and over, regardless of gender or sexual orientation, who wishes to address their behaviour in relationships.

Reaching out can be a daunting step, but it’s the first move towards a safer and brighter future.

How we can help

Our service offers free, confidential support to anyone experiencing domestic abuse. Whether you need someone to talk to, a safe place to stay, or advice on your next steps, we are here for you.

You are not alone, and you do not have to face this on your own. Take the first step today by contacting us. Together, we can help you find a way forward.

Share to raise awareness

We know that domestic abuse thrives in silence. By sharing this blog, you can help raise awareness and ensure more people know where to turn for support. Let’s start the new year by showing that help is available, and hope is always possible.

The Somerset Domestic Abuse Support Service is ready to handle an increased demand in January.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, or if you’re concerned about your own actions, help is available:

• Call: 0800 69 49 999 (8am–8pm, 7 days a week including bank holidays)
• Email: SIDAS@somerset.gov.uk
• In an emergency dial 999. If speaking puts you at risk, stay silent, tap the phone, and press 55 when prompted.
• For those who are D/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 go to 999 BSL for a BSL interpreter.

Together, we can ensure no one suffers in silence.