Thursday, December 11, 2025
Lancashire Police are urging victims of domestic abuse not to suffer in silence over the festive period.
They are encouraging people who may be fearful of having to spend more family time together with offenders or perhaps worried about financial or sexual abuse over the festive period to get support as part of their Christmas #NoExcuseforAbuse campaign.
The campaign, which will be promoted widely across the county, aims to offer advice, information and support to victims of domestic abuse. Supported by local charities, councils, healthcare services and partners, it also signposts victims to help available across Lancashire.
Reports of domestic abuse are usually higher in December than most other months with over 2,000 crimes recorded in December 2024 alone.
There is no 'them and us' when we're thinking about victims and survivors of domestic abuse - they are our friends, our family, our Neighbours and our colleagues. Domestic abuse also spans many different forms, and can be experienced by anyone at any time, regardless of age or gender.
Domestic abuse can also take place within different types of relationships – couples, parents, grandparents or wider family members.
Lancashire Police define domestic abuse as “any incident or pattern of incidents that includes emotional, physical, sexual and financial abuse as well as controlling behaviour”.
Chief Inspector Ruth Atherton from Lancashire’s Vulnerability Governance Unit said: “Whilst many of us will be looking forward to Christmas, the time of year can be daunting for many. Christmas often comes with more time spent at home, time off work, excess drinking, more time around family and money worries.
“Although there is NO excuse for abuse at any time of the year, all these factors can make abuse or the fear of abuse much worse during the festive season.
“Domestic abuse in any form is not okay and will not be tolerated in Lancashire. We work alongside many different support organisations across the county, all with the aim of helping and supporting victims of domestic abuse. If you are a victim, please take that first step and reach out for help.”
Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said: “"Everyone should be able to live their lives free from abuse and without fear, especially in their own home.
"Domestic abuse of any kind is completely unacceptable, and a key part of my role is to ensure that expert support is available to anyone who needs it.
"I fund a wide range of support services across Lancashire, and anyone experiencing domestic abuse can find contact details for domestic abuse services on the dedicated #NoExcuseForAbuse website, funded by my Office.
"I will continue to commission local services to provide expert support, and I will work closely with Lancashire Constabulary to ensure that anyone reporting domestic abuse receives the protection, support, and justice they deserve.”
If you are worried about a loved one, or yourself, and think they may be at risk of abuse please visit www.noexcuseforabuse.co.uk for more information on about the #NoExcuseForAbuse campaign, signs to look out for and details of the help and support agencies available in your local area.