Message from Detective Chief Inspector Yasmin Lalani, Tower Hamlets BCU
It’s Christmas time again. No one should feel unsafe in their own home, at Christmas or at any time of year. It is supposed to be magical time of year but for thousands of women, men and their children experiencing domestic abuse, it’s just another day waking up in fear.
Our message to abuse victims this Christmas and over the festive period is “don’t be afraid, seek help.”
So many people are alone and frightened at this time. There are little things that we can all do to help and support others which make huge differences.
Domestic abuse affects around 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men in their lifetime.
If you believe you are in an abusive relationship, first of all it is not your fault. No one deserves abuse or to feel unsafe in a relationship. Secondly, don’t be afraid to talk to someone about your situation – they will likely offer support without judgment.
Being in an abusive relationship can be isolating. Whether you feel alienated or ashamed by the way you were treated, it can be hard to face people after experiencing abuse, but people will be there to support you.
The first step in escaping an abusive situation is realising that you're not alone and it's not your fault.
Support is available
Tower Hamlets Council and the Police can support you in taking the next steps to seeking support. There are a number of different ways we can support you.
- Tower Hamlets and City of London SASS Service will be open between 9am and 5pm from Wednesday 27December 2023 – 31 December 2023. Normal hours resume from 2 January 2024.
- The National Domestic Violence Helpline is a 24 hour, 7 day a week telephone provider: 0808 200 247.
- A full comprehensive list of services within the VAWG Services Directory can be found online.
Advice from external organisations may also be useful, such as:
Please do not suffer in silence. Look out for each other and call 999 in an emergency.
Posted on Wednesday 20th December 2023