FESTIVE WARNING ON DOMESTIC ABUSE

Alcohol and women's charities have united in voicing their concerns about domestic abuse over the festive period.

They say that whilst Christmas is a happy time for many, the increased stress, increased alcohol consumption and extra spending (especially given the current economic climate) family tensions can be high, creating an environment where domestic abuse can be more likely to occurr.

Figures collected by the Wales Domestic Abuse Helpline show that the number of calls to the helpline rises significantly in January and February, and the Christmas holidays may well be a factor in this.

Paula Hardy, Chief Executive of Welsh Women’s Aid said:

"The festive period is a time when levels of stress, alcohol use and indebtedness are increased. If you live in an abusive family, the tensions arising from these issues can reach fever pitch and sometimes spill over into violence and abusive outbursts.

It would be a mistake to assume that domestic abuse is a one-off incident sparked by the stresses of Christmas or the consumption of alcohol. The fact is that on average a woman will be assaulted by her partner or ex-partner 35 times before reporting it to the police."

Andrew Misell, Alcohol Concern Cymru Policy Manager, said:

"Alcohol is not the cause of domestic violence, and drinking should never be taken as excuse for abuse. However, it’s clear that alcohol plays a role in many incidents.

Statistics from Welsh police forces collected by Alcohol Concern suggest that alcohol is a factor in between 45% and 70% of incidents of domestic violence. We know that where domestic abuse is taking place, alcohol consumption by perpetrators can increase the frequency and seriousness of injuries, and that many victims of domestic abuse – over three quarters of whom are women – are also using alcohol as a means of coping with the abuse.

We are keen to work with alcohol service providers and those supporting victims of domestic abuse to ensure that the complex relationship between alcohol and domestic abuse if better understood, in order to ensure the best outcomes for people in abusive relationships."