EXCLUSIVE: Over 400 domestic abuse reports made in two days over Christmas
Last updated 24th Feb 2021
Four hundred and fifteen reports of domestic abuse and crime were made to the PSNI over Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Downtown Radio & Cool FM have been given an exclusive look at the figures from the festive campaign 'Speak Out', which was to encourage the reporting of domestic abuse incidents and make victims aware they can come forward to report abuse to police.
The PSNI received 3,341 calls for help in relation to domestic abuse incidents compared to 3,584 for the same period the year before (a decrease of 243 calls).
During this same period, 2,116 reports of domestic crimes were also made.
The big increase during this campaign was on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
On the 25 December, 111 incidents of domestic abuse were reported, compared to 96 for the same period the year before (an increase of 15 reports).
During this same period, officers received 72 reports of domestic crimes, compared to 53 for the same period the year before (an increase of 19 crimes).
132 incidents of domestic abuse were reported on Boxing Day, along with 100 reports of domestic crimes.
Detective Superintendent Eamonn Corrigan, Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Public Protection Branch spoke to our Chief Reporter Sasha Wylie about the figures -
"We are all living in extraordinary times, trying to deal with the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, which can make those suffering from domestic abuse feel even more isolated and vulnerable. However, my message is clear - you are not alone. Do not suffer in silence, please talk to us. We are here to help you. We will treat you with sensitivity and respect and help you explore your options to get justice.
"I can assure everyone who comes to us that we will be with them every step of the way.
“It is important that anyone suffering from domestic abuse knows they should not have to endure this horrific behaviour and that there are people who can help them make it stop. Police are not the only body who offer advice and help in cases of domestic abuse. We also work closely with a range of partner agencies including Women’s Aid; Rainbow Project and Men’s Advisory Project, who also offer a wide range of services and advice."
If you need any more information or support - please use the contact information below.
24 Hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline
Available to anyone who has concerns about domestic or sexual abuse, now or in the past. It is open to all women and men affected by domestic and sexual violence. Please phone 0808 802 1414.
Women’s Aid
Women’s Aid is the national domestic violence charity that helps up to 250,000 women and children every year. They work to end violence against women and children and support over 350 domestic and sexual violence services across the country.
Men’s Advisory Project
Men’s Advisory Project (MAP) exists to provide counselling services for men experiencing domestic abuse. Support and counselling services are also available to men who have previously left a violent or abusive relationship and who are still experiencing the effects.
GP
Your local GP can offer help and support. Many people experiencing abuse believe that their GP can be trusted with disclosure and can offer practical support.