Thames Valley Police issues advice for abuse victims this Christmas

Christmas can be a challenging time and different types of abuse can increase during this period.

All forms of abuse are illegal, whether psychological, violent, sexual or financial.

Victims of abuse are often fearful to report what is happening to them because they know what the consequences are likely to be. But there are different ways to raise the alarm.

Abuse victims can use the ANI codeword scheme (Action Needed Immediately) to signal for help from the safety of a pharmacy. They can also ask a delivery driver, supermarket worker or postal worker to call 999 for them.

Call 999 if someone is at risk right now. Alternatively, use the silent solution by dialling 55 on a mobile, call 101, Crimestoppers, or explore other routes such as the NSPCC and Victim Support.

New parents who feel like they are struggling can seek support from post-natal groups, police officers or social carers.

You may be the only person who knows about the abuse and who can act in the victim's best interests.

Visit https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/police-forces/thames-valley-police/areas/c/2020/domestic-abuse/signs-of-domestic-abuse/ to find out what signs of abuse to look out for.

Domestic abuse is any incident of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, regardless of their gender or sexuality.

Visit https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/daa/domestic-abuse/support-organisations/ to locate more support organisations.