Support is available in Sandwell this Christmas for anyone experiencing domestic abuse or for anyone worried about someone who is.
Christmas can be stressful for victims living with abusive partners, as families are together for an extended period of time and existing domestic abuse can intensify.
Tensions can escalate as household budgets are stretched and more alcohol might be consumed than usual. These factors can increase abuse for victims.
Support is available to victims and families, and there is also help for those who want to change their behaviour.
If you think you may be behaving in an abusive way towards your partner or family, confidential advice and support to help you stop being abusive is available from the Respect phoneline – call freephone 0808 802 4040 or visit the Respect website.
Black Country Women's Aid (BCWA) provides a full range of services and support to female and male victims of all ages, including those from LGBTQ+ communities, people with disabilities and all ethnicities and backgrounds who are experiencing domestic abuse.
If you don’t feel safe in your home, BCWA can offer victims with or without children secure and supportive safe accommodation for people who need to leave their homes because of domestic abuse. They can also find you refuge space elsewhere in the country if you choose. If you do not want to leave your home, help is available to find you the appropriate services that you can access in the community.
You can call Black Country Women’s Aid 24 hours a day on 0121 552 6448. For more information, visit the Black Country Women's Aid website.
Specialist support is available for men and boys who have experienced domestic abuse, rape and sexual abuse. Ask Marc provides confidential practical and emotional support. This includes one-to-one and telephone support, access to counselling, help to report issues to the police, support at court and support groups.
Contact Ask Marc by phoning 0121 289 6402, emailing info@askmarc.org.uk or visiting the Ask Marc website for more information.
Birmingham LGBT Centre can also provide a range of support services for LGBT victims. Call 0121 643 0821 or visit the Birmingham LGBT website for more information.
Sandwell Council also provides support to access safe accommodation for victims and their children who may find themselves at risk of homelessness due to domestic abuse. Visit our Homeless or at risk of losing your home webpage for further information.
Anyone who is experiencing domestic abuse can also get help at their GP practice, where there are dedicated advocates whose role is to provide information, advice and support, and empower victims of domestic abuse.
Domestic abuse advocates will be available throughout the Christmas and New Year period to support any male or female victims of domestic abuse.
Councillor Suzanne Hartwell, Deputy Council Leader and Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Community, said: “Domestic abuse can happen to anyone. Sandwell Council works with a range of partners throughout the year to help those experiencing domestic abuse.
“We know Christmas and New Year can be a particularly stressful time for families. No matter how someone is feeling, there is never any excuse for abuse.
“If domestic abuse is happening to you, it’s important that that you tell someone – such as Black Country Women’s Aid, Ask Marc, the council or police. Remember you’re not alone, we’re here to support you. You don’t have to wait for an emergency to find help.”
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, always call 999.