EXTRA drinks during New Year celebrations are no excuse for domestic violence, police have warned.
At this time of year police usually see an increase in reported incidents of domestic abuse and violence, but the message from South Yorkshire Police is that domestic abuse is not acceptable, and there are dedicated officers and resources in place to ensure all incidents are investigated vigorously.
Domestic abuse can be physical, emotional, psychological, financial or sexual, and includes the threat of abuse as well as actual acts.
Supt Peter Norman, of South Yorkshire Police, said: “The pressures of family life, debt, work or unemployment worries and the added increase in people’s alcohol consumption over the New Year period can put added strain on relationships.
“However, there is no excuse for domestic abuse - many people have to cope with these pressures and don’t assault their partners, and no-one should have to live in fear.
“We want victims to report such cases to us, as soon as possible, no matter what time of the day or night.”
He told victims directly: “Do not suffer in silence, do not become a repeat victim. We will work with our partner agencies to keep you safe, and support you in whatever way you need.” He also warned: “With fewer courts operating over the festive period, offenders could find themselves facing a very bleak New Year in a cell as they wait for a hearing.”
The Mayor of Doncaster, Peter Davies, added: “Domestic abuse is not tolerated at any time of year and is a priority for the council and our partners because of the harm it causes. Our latest figures show more and more people are having confidence to come forward and report incidents, and we want to be sure that people know they can still seek help at any point over the festive period when sadly cases of domestic abuse increase.”
Domestic abuse currently accounts for 18 per cent of violent crime and has more repeat victims than any other.
Call 999 in an emergency and 101 if not at immediate risk.
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