Victims of domestic abuse urged not to ‘suffer in silence’ and phone helpline

Victims of domestic abuse should not “suffer in silence” this Christmas, an MSP has said, as she urged people to access a free 24/7 helpline if they need support.

SNP MSP Michelle Thomson said the Scottish Women’s Aid’s domestic abuse and forced marriage helpline is open at any time throughout the festive period.

People can contact the helpline via phone on 0800 027 1234, email on helpline@sdafmh.org.uk or online chat by visiting sdafmh.org.uk

It comes after data from Police Scotland showed domestic abuse crimes have increased by 11% over the past year.

Between April and September, 20,271 domestic abuse crimes were reported to the force.

Officers said the majority of the increase was in psychological crimes, such as stalking or coercive control.

Around eight in 10 incidents of domestic abuse in Scotland involve a male perpetrator and a female victim, according to the Scottish Government.

Police Scotland recently launched a campaign, alongside the charity Respect UK, encouraging men to seek help if their behaviour is abusive.

Ms Thomson urged men to listen to the campaign and encouraged women to seek help if they need it.

She said: “Evidence shows that incidences of domestic violence increase over the festive period, and I would encourage anyone experiencing violence and abuse to reach out for confidential support via the Scottish Women’s Aid’s helpline for confidential support.

“What is seemingly a joyous and celebratory time can in fact be the opposite for those living in abusive households, and no one should suffer in silence.

“Confidential, professional support is available all throughout the holiday period. Anyone in an abusive relationship – or who knows of someone who is – please reach out to Scotland’s 24/7 domestic abuse and forced marriage helpline on 0800 027 1234.

“And for men, they should listen to Police Scotland’s current campaign, you can stop such behaviour and seek free confidential help at respectphoneline.org.uk.”