The festive season is meant to be a time for joy, celebration, and connection. Yet, for many women, it can bring moments of isolation and vulnerability. Whether you’re out celebrating with friends, home alone, or spending more time in difficult relationships, a woman’s safety is heightened at Christmas more than any other time of the year.
At eve Domestic Abuse Charity, we want every woman to feel safe, supported, and empowered. As well as being free to enjoy every moment of this magical season. In this article, we are sharing practical safety tips as important reminders for everyone out and about, and as guidance for those who may be facing targeted abuse this December.
Celebrate in Style But Stay Safe
Work parties, late-night shopping, and Christmas drinks all increase this time of year. But with them come increased risks. To keep yourself and others safe, consider the following before you set out:
Plan Your Route Home – Before you even leave the house, determine how you will get home and with whom. Share your plans with someone you trust, so people know where you are.
Stick Together – Wherever possible, travel with the people you know and trust. Look out for each other, and don’t leave anyone alone.
Watch Your Drinks – Spiking is a serious concern on nights out. Always keep your drink with you and never accept drinks unless you’ve seen them being poured.
Be Vigilant – Become familiar with your surroundings and the people around you. If something or someone doesn’t seem right, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation safely.
Keep Your Phone Charged – Charge your phone before you leave, or take a portable charger with you. This way, you will always have access to emergency numbers if needed.
Avoid Drinking – Our inhibitions and reactions are lower when alcohol is involved. Be mindful of what you’re drinking and how much. Switch to alcohol-free drinks, or consider being the designated driver.
Remember, you have the right to feel safe no matter where you are or who you are with. Make decisions that prioritise your safety and wellbeing, even if that means leaving the party early.
Navigating Abusive Relationships Over Christmas
Christmas can bring many stresses, such as financial worries, mum guilt, social pressures, and the need to put on a show to keep up appearances. For those in abusive relationships, increased alcohol and more time at home can make this season even more dangerous.
If you’re living with an abusive partner, first, please remember that you are not alone. Help is always available, even during the Christmas holidays. If you are staying at home with a perpetrator, follow these steps to ensure your and your children’s safety:
Tell Someone You Trust – In case of an emergency, have a trusted friend or family member whom you can call and rely on if needed.
Pack a Bag – If it’s safe to do so, pack and hide a bag you can quickly grab if you need to leave. Include important documents, such as identification, passports, keys, and any medications.
Know Where To Go – Whether it’s a friend or family member’s home, or your local domestic abuse charity, have an address to hand for a safe and warm refuge.
Remove Alcohol – Alcohol can increase the risk of verbal and physical abuse. If it’s possible, remove or limit the amount of alcohol in the house.
Call 999 in emergencies – If you or your child is in danger, call 999 immediately. If you’re unable to speak, use the Silent Solution by dialling 999 and then 55 when prompted.
Look Out for One Another
With so much going on in December, it’s easy to get caught up in the merriment of the season. Now, more than ever, is the time to keep an eye out for each other. From sticking together on nights out to suspecting someone is struggling at home, we need to step up.
If you are worried about a friend, colleague, or family member, and suspect that they may be experiencing abuse at home, there are ways we can approach the subject with kindness and care, letting them know that they’re not alone. Ask questions like: ‘How are you spending Christmas?’ or ‘I’ve noticed things seem difficult for you lately. Are you okay?’
Small gestures can also make a big difference, such as listening without judgment, regularly checking in, or simply letting them know you’re available. Ultimately, we want everyone to have a wonderful and safe Christmas and New Year, and the best way to achieve this is by creating a safe community for all.
Contact Eve
Here at Eve, we have a team of fully trained individuals who you can contact 24/7 for domestic abuse-related matters. We provide supportive solutions, constructive training for businesses, and safe refuge for female victims and children affected by domestic abuse.
Contact times and support available for domestic abuse-related matters:
- 9am -5pm – Helpline: General enquiries, information, advice and guidance
- 5pm – 9am – Out of Hours Emergency Support
- 9am – 10pm – Silent Solutions, text or email
