As Christmas approaches, people are excited about gifting, big lunches, and quality family time. However, for many in the UK, this won’t be the case this year, as experts at Higgs LLP explain that Christmas often sees rises in domestic violence, which is only worsening due to economic conditions.
Higgs LLP found that Google searches for ‘domestic violence refuge near me’ have increased 300% in the last year, with ‘help with domestic violence’ up 230% and ‘hotline for domestic violence’ up 171%.
Karen Gray, lawyer and domestic abuse lawyer at Higgs LLP, comments on these findings, the red flag signs of abuse, and why awareness should be raised, especially around Christmas.
What is domestic abuse and what do the statistics say?
“Domestic abuse is typically manifested as an incident or pattern of incidents of abusive behaviour which occur mainly in relationships by a partner, an ex-partner, or between family members or carers.
“Domestic abuse does not just mean physical abuse. It is defined as any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening or abusive behaviour, which can include physical, emotional, psychological, sexual or financial abuse
“An estimated 2.1 million people over the age of 16 experienced domestic abuse in the UK in 2023, with police recording 1,453,867 domestic abuse-related incidents and crimes in England and Wales. In the year ending December 2023, the police recorded a domestic abuse offence approximately every 40 seconds reporting that there is an increase in incidents of domestic abuse over the Christmas period. These numbers are terrifying and remind us that domestic abuse is much more commonplace than we may realise. We need to sound alarm bells, educate on warning signs, and create and fund safe places for those affected.”
What is the link between Christmas and domestic abuse?
“It’s important to understand that Christmas itself is not the cause of domestic abuse. Abuse is fundamentally about power and control. However, the conditions surrounding Christmas—such as heightened alcohol consumption and substance misuse, increased financial stress, heightened tensions due to family gatherings or isolation, the workplace and schools closing for the season and reduced access to support services during the holiday period - can create a volatile environment where abuse is more likely to occur.
There can be societal pressure to maintain a “happy family” image and the festive season can amplify existing tensions, and in households where abuse is already present, the consequences can become even more severe.
“Raising awareness about domestic abuse, its warning signs and the importance of accessing support during the holiday season is crucial. We must also work to de-stigmatise conversations around abuse so victims feel empowered to seek help.”
Does alcohol have an impact on domestic abuse?
“While alcohol does not cause domestic abuse, it plays a significant role in exacerbating it. During the festive season, drinking often increases, and this can make abusers more unpredictable and volatile. Alcohol impairs judgment, lowers inhibitions, and can escalate aggression, especially in individuals predisposed to abusive behaviour. For victims, this can mean heightened danger, as their abuser’s tendencies may become more pronounced. Communities should be mindful of encouraging responsible drinking and ensuring safe spaces are available, particularly during times of celebration.”
Do financial pressures affect domestic abuse?
“Financial strain is a known contributor to stress and conflict within households, and Christmas can compound these pressures. Many families feel an obligation to spend beyond their means, whether on gifts, food, or travel, and this can lead to arguments or feelings of inadequacy in some individuals. In relationships where one partner already exercises financial control, these pressures can deepen that imbalance, leaving victims even more vulnerable.”
What is the impact of increased family time on domestic abuse?
“While Christmas is marketed as a time for family togetherness, this can be particularly challenging for families in abusive situations. With schools, nurseries, and workplaces often closed, victims and their children may find themselves spending extended periods in close quarters with their abuser. This lack of physical and social escape can intensify the cycle of abuse.
Encouraging accessible support, like anonymous online chat services and holiday-specific hotlines, can provide lifelines for those unable to leave their homes. Not forgetting, the impact on children who witness abuse and the long-term effects of domestic abuse over the holiday period.”
What are the warning signs of domestic abuse?
“There are a range of behaviours that may indicate domestic abuse. People may fear their partner's or family member's reactions and unpredictable behaviour. Additionally, victims may struggle to express their own opinions, constantly being put down by their partner and making them feel worthless; controlling their money for them or preventing them from working, forcing them into sexual acts without consent, isolating them from family and friends and monitoring their movements.
They may be belittled or accused of infidelity, and face restrictions on their food intake, clothing choices or finances. Another key early indicator is the abuser’s extreme jealousy and their means of isolating victims from their loved ones and undermining and severing their support network.
What does physical violence look like in domestic abuse?
“Physical violence in domestic abuse includes many forms of physical assault. For example, it could show in relationships as the abuser attacking or physically harming a victim, abandoning a victim in places they don’t know or locking them out of their house, performing non-consensual sexual acts, making them dress provocatively against their will, or preventing a victim from seeking medical care.”
Why is seeking help and legal advice for domestic violence important?
“Breaking the cycle of abuse is critical, and obtaining legal support is essential to ensure victims have confidential and secure environments where they receive personalised advice and access to resources. This support ensures that victims are safe, supported, and able to seek justice. Additionally, the assistance of expert domestic abuse lawyers to advise on protective injunctions, such as Non-Molestation Orders or Occupation Orders, and to assess for elibility for legal aid funding, is vital for the safety and well-being of victims.”
“There are also helplines available over the Christmas period. You can reach the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247 for anyone who may need to seek help during the Christmas period when offices and services are less accessible.”
