Drive to stop abuse during festive period

Vulnerable victims are being given advice by Havant-based Aurora New Dawn as it is a time that can contribute to domestic violence.

It comes as Hampshire County Council said 44,000 women and 25,000 men in the county experience domestic abuse a year.

One in four women and one in six men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime, often with years of psychological abuse.

Now officers in Havant and Waterlooville are aiming to minimise abuse over the festive period.

A spokeswoman for Hampshire police said: ‘As a pro-active approach to minimising domestic abuse in the run-up to Christmas and over the festive period police across Havant and Waterlooville will be paying visits to vulnerable victims of domestic abuse to see what we can do to offer assistance and support during what can be a stressful period.

‘In conjunction with Aurora New Dawn we will be giving advice to help people get through the stresses and strains of Christmas which can aggravate issues already present and contribute to domestic abuse.’

Police are also visiting businesses to discuss the issue.

Executive member for health, Cllr Patricia Stallard, said: ‘Domestic abuse has far-reaching effects on individuals, families and communities. The county council and partner agencies working together are committed to tackling domestic abuse.

‘Because of its complexity, domestic abuse cannot be tackled in isolation, so critical to delivering this aim is working in partnership and taking a multi-agency approach.’

Victims of abuse, and those working with them, can contact the service on 03300 165 112 to get immediate information as well as be referred other services.