Christmas is seen as a happy and joyous occasion for the most of us however for some, the festive period brings increased tension, financial strain and conflict within the home.
Over Christmas in 2020, nationwide reports of Domestic violence rose nearly two-fold, increasing from 200,000 before Christmas to 369,000 in January 2021. The Guardian have also reported that charities see an increase of 15% in domestic violence related calls over Christmas.
Domestic Abuse is defined by the Domestic Abuse Act as “any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are or have been intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality.” Domestic abuse is often thought to be just physical violence however, verbal abuse, harassing behaviour, financial control and threats of violence are also forms of domestic abuse. This is a genderless issue and happens to both women and men.
An increase in financial strain, alcohol consumption and family tension alongside spending more time at home together, often lead to a rise in domestic violence over the festive period. Many victims sadly suffer in silence as they feel they need to ‘keep the peace’ within the household, especially if there are children involved. With the desire for the festive period to be just like the adverts seen on television, many people feel trapped or unsure where to reach out for help.
Nobody should have to live in fear and help is available to you regardless of the time of year. Many local and national charities work through the festive period to offer help and support to those in need. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please contact the resources available, this list is not extensive and there are local charities available to help you close to your area.
National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247
ManKind: 0182 3334 244
Victim Support helpline: 08081 689 111
Women’s aid is a directory of local, regional and national services specialising in violence against women and children, click here to visit the website.
If you are in immediate danger, please call 999 to speak to the emergency services.
As a Family Law firm, we see many cases of domestic violence and the turmoil that victims carry with them. We can provide you with the expert guidance you need to obtain legal protection from your abuser, whether this is a current or ex partner or a family member. We can help you to apply for a Non-Molestation Order or an Occupation Order from the Court for your protection. The Court will consider the most recent incidents and any history of abuse you may have suffered.
Non-Molestation Order
The Court can make a Non-Molestation Order to prevent a family member or (ex) partner from intimidating, harassing or threatening and using violence against you. This also prevents any damage to your property, their ability to contact you through social media or making someone do these things on their behalf.
Occupation Order
You may need the additional protection of an Occupation Order as this prevents your ex-partner from living with you if they jointly own the house. The Court can also prevent that person from coming close to where they believe you are living.
Here at Andrew Isaacs Law, we are a team of expert Family Law Solicitors who are able to assist you with Non-Molestation Orders and protection from a (ex) partner or family member. We are here to support you through what can be daunting and emotional times, our team will listen to you, understand your circumstances and give you thorough and tailored advice. Contact us today because your family matters.
Contact us here
Article dated: 04/12/2025
Evie is our Digital Marketing Apprentice who assists our Head of Marketing whilst balancing her apprenticeship studies. Evie hopes to stay working within our Marketing Department, sharing her growing expertise with future team members.
Evie enjoys traveling all over the world and is always planning short city breaks with her boyfriend and her family. She plans to visit South America as well as visit all the places listed in the Beach Boy’s song ‘Kokomo.’
Call us now, our phone lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week 01302 349 480 or fill out our enquiry form here
Our friendly staff are on hand to answer any of your questions.