Cambridge researcher says domestic violence victims should have 'no shame' to speak up
As the New Year approaches, victims may find it tougher to get support
Victims of domestic violence in Cambridgeshire are being reassured there's no shame in speaking out.
Last December, 878 cases of domestic abuse were dealt with by Cambridgeshire Police, with more than 150 incidents received so far this month.
"(The festive period) is a very difficult time for someone who's experiencing domestic violence," Mags Lesiak, researcher at the University of Cambridge focusing on domestic violence, said.
"Your perpetrator most likely is around you all the time; he's not working, you're not working, and lots of support services are on annual leave, so you might be experiencing isolation."
Earlier this year, Ms Lesiak led a study on how male abusers use a 'trauma bond', a form of attachment based on threat and relief that leaves victims desperate for approval.
She argued that this type of bond is not just a response to violent trauma, but a plan by perpetrators as a way of asserting control before they leave visible marks on their victim.
"I think the most important thing is to reach out, and I know there's lots of stigma around it, especially if you are from a minority background, but there are organisations who are open to hear you," Ms Lesiak said.
"As long as you're isolated, you are vulnerable and sometimes it's hard to say out loud 'I've been abused'; there's lots of shame attached to it.
"But if you talk to others about it, the shame will disappear."
Where to find help
In an emergency, individuals can dial 999 or call the number and press 55 if unable to speak. Call handlers are trained to identify the caller’s location and send officers to assist.
For those who may not feel comfortable contacting the police directly, helplines are available. The National Domestic Abuse Helpline is free and operates 24/7 at 0808 2000 247.
Further information about recognising domestic abuse and how to report it is available on the dedicated domestic abuse web pages of the Cambridgeshire Police website.