As the festive season approaches, Somerset Council is urging the public and employers to remain vigilant for signs of domestic abuse, a shadow often cast over the holiday period.

For many, Christmas is a time for love and celebration, but for those experiencing domestic abuse, it can be a time of fear and isolation. Increased financial pressures, higher alcohol consumption, and the stresses of creating a perfect holiday can fuel abusive behaviours, making the season particularly challenging.

Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, Lead Executive Member for communities at Somerset Council, said:

Christmas is meant to be a joyous time, but sadly, it often brings a surge in domestic abuse cases. I urge everyone to educate themselves on the signs of domestic abuse and to be alert to them in the relationships of those around them when visiting family and friends this season.

Domestic abuse is not always physical. It can manifest as emotional manipulation, financial control, or isolating someone from their support network. Learning to spot these more subtle forms of abuse can be lifesaving. Pay attention to changes in behaviour, withdrawal from social activities, or signs of anxiety and distress.

Visit somersetdomesticabuse.org.uk/am-i-being-abused to find out more about the signs of domestic abuse.

Somerset Council provides support through the Somerset Domestic Abuse Service, which offers confidential, non-judgemental advice to anyone worried about a friend, family member, neighbour, or colleague.

Resources on somersetdomesticabuse.org.uk and the employers’ toolkit can be accessed 24/7 and are designed to help individuals and organisations respond effectively to domestic abuse.

The service also has a helpline, 0800 69 49 999, which is open every day (including Christmas Day) – 8am to 8pm.

It’s also important to remember that help is available for those worried about their own behaviour. Recognising harmful patterns and seeking professional support is a critical step in breaking the cycle of abuse.

Free training is available, which is designed to raise your awareness and give you information on how to help your community.

This Christmas let’s spread awareness, compassion, and support to those who need it most. Together, we can help ensure that no one suffers in silence.

If you are experiencing any form of domestic abuse, worried about someone you know, or are concerned about the impact of your behaviour towards others, then help is available via somersetdomesticabuse.org.uk or by telephoning 0800 69 49 999 between 8am and 8pm, 7 days a week.

In an emergency you should always dial 999. If you are worried that an abuser may overhear your call you can remain silent, tap the phone and dial 55 when prompted by the operator who will send help.

If you are deaf, hard of hearing or speech-impaired you can register with emergencySMS.net. Once registered you will be able to send a text to 999 if you require help in an emergency.

If you are concerned about your behaviour towards a partner, ex-partner, or family member, support is also available via Somerset Domestic Abuse’s Information for those causing harm page.

Together, we can create safer communities for all.