Winter wellbeing: domestic abuse awareness

Trigger warning: Content mentions domestic abuse

This new blog in our 'Winter wellbeing' series focuses on domestic abuse awareness. Sadly, at this time of year, domestic abuse and violence can increase. Shorter days, more time spent indoors, financial pressures, and holiday stresses can heighten tension, but also reduce opportunities to seek help.  

Unfortunately, domestic abuse is a common reality for many people, regardless of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or belief.

Approximately 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. Data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS, 2024) estimates that in the year ending March 2024, 2.3 million people aged 16 and over in England and Wales were affected. Domestic abuse can lead to a variety of mental health problems, homelessness, and isolation. 

Definition: 'Domestic abuse is a pattern of abusive behaviour in any relationship that is used by one partner or family member to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner or family member and is defined within the Domestic Abuse Act of 2021'. 

The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) identifies several risk factors for domestic abuse, including: being female, being a young adult, having a comorbid mental health problem or long-term illness, separating from a partner, being pregnant, or being socio-economically disadvantaged. 

On average, the police receive a call for domestic abuse every 30 seconds, yet fewer than 1 in 5 people report an incident to the police. 

If you or someone you know needs help, you and they are not alone. There is a range of support available, including:

• National Domestic Abuse Helpline (for women): 0808 2000 247 
• Respect Men’s Advice Line (for men): 0808 8010 327 
• Galop (for LGBTQ+): 0800 999 5428 
• The Links Group (pet fostering) 
• RSPCA / Scottish SPCA / USPCA (for animal welfare concerns) 
• Bright Sky app: free support and information, available on Apple Store and Google Play. 

You can also receive help in finding a safe space in person - such as at a pharmacy or bank - or online. If you are exploring these options, Women's Aid offers guidance to help you stay safe online and protect your digital privacy, such as your browsing history and searches.

In an emergency, you or anyone in immediate danger should call 999 and ask for the police. If you or they cannot speak safely, call 999 and then press 55.  

The Safe Spaces Campaign by UK Says No More also provides a range of useful information for organisations supporting those experiencing domestic abuse and sexual violence.  

Veterinary-specific support 

If you need help or support within the veterinary profession, contact the Vetlife Helpline on 0303 040 2551.