Women’s Aid National Freephone Helpline
18th December 2024
Women’s Aid is reminding the public that its National Freephone Helpline – 1800 341 900 – remains open 24 hours a day over the Christmas period, and that it is there for anyone who needs it at what can be a particularly difficult time for women who are subjected to domestic violence and abuse.
The service also offers interpretation in over 200 languages for any caller uncomfortable using English to discuss what is happening to them.
In previous years, the national frontline support service for women affected by domestic abuse, has observed that with people off work for the festive period, many women are forced to spend more time with their abusers, while the impact of economic abuse can be even greater as women face the extra financial pressure that comes at this time of year.
Domestic abuse doesn’t always end when a relationship breaks down, and many women find that their ex-partners use this time of year to control and abuse them and their children by withholding maintenance, attempting to disturb access arrangements or dishonouring agreements made about Christmas presents for children.
Based on last year’s figures, Women’s Aid expects to respond to about 60 contacts a day over the Christmas period, with an increase likely in the new year when women have more time alone.
Women’s Aid CEO, Sarah Benson said:
“Survivors-victims of domestic violence and abuse face horror and fear all year round, but for many, Christmas is a particularly difficult and stressful time.
Like most families, women subjected to this kind of abuse want to make Christmas a time of happiness and joy for their children. However, many abusers control the finances in their home and make it impossible for women to buy gifts and treats for their children and family. The fear of what might, or will, happen is always there and survivors-victims know that one change in mood can cause untold damage. Women often just try and get through the period as best they can, but we want them to know that the Women’s Aid Freephone Helpline is always there for them, should they need it. We know that physical, emotional, sexual, and economic abuse does not go away just because it is the festive season.”
Women’s Aid National Freephone Helpline manager, Linda Smith said it is often in the days and weeks after Christmas that women reach out for help. She said: “A lot of the calls we get about violence and abuse at Christmas come after the period is over. We find time and time again that women do everything they can to try and keep the peace at Christmas, walking on eggshells and putting themselves last. It is a very stressful time for them. Then when Christmas is over and they have some time alone, they will contact us to talk or seek help. However, the phoneline is available at all times, and people who need our service must know they can ring any time.”
Christmas can also be very hard for women who are separated from their abusers, as they have to hand over their children in line with access arrangements, and many abusers use Christmas gifts to coercively control their children and ex-partners. They may not pay maintenance or pay it late to limit what women can buy for Christmas, and then shower the children with gifts themselves. This is abusive and controlling behaviour.
Sarah Benson added: “Services are vital at this time of the year, and we are committed to answering as many calls as we can and signposting women to local services if that is what they need and want.
Our Helpline staff and volunteers continue to give women the opportunity to talk things through and offer them vital support and information.
We are here for every woman who needs to talk about anything that is making them anxious, worried or fearful about their partner or ex-partner. Every call is important so please pick up the phone if you can.”
