'Referrals increase at this time of year' says domestic abuse charity

A domestic abuse in charity have told us its referrals increase at this time of year.

It's following on from Christmas, where Oasis - who are based in Sittingbourne - believes more incidents take place, Joanne Baldwin works for the charity and she explains why this is.

She said: "Financial pressures on families where domestic abuse in present may heighten the risk of an explosion or incident as well those where drinking will be involved.

"This is just one of those times of year which we call a 'trigger point' - where we get more referrals to the service. In December, they normally happen over Christmas or just after it, but sadly there are a lot of people who won't come forward.

"There is a fear that they won't be believed but when you call us, you will always be believed and always be treated seriously. What's important is that you make that first step to reach out for help.

"It could be anywhere, you could go for a GP appointment or at a Boots chemist you could even speak to a safeguarding officer on the school run."

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