'Domestic abuse doesn't take a break during the summer holidays' says survivor
Calls to the National Domestic Violence spike by 20% once the schools break up
With Kent's families enjoying the start of the summer holidays a domestic abuse survivor has told us the school break is the 'toughest time of the year' for victims.
According to the latest data, calls to the National Domestic Violence spike by 20% once the school gates close.
After escaping her violent relationship, Tina now works for domestic abuse charity Oasis in Sittingbourne.
She explains what it's like for victims, she said:
"During the summer holidays I will be questions what I'm doing with my time. If I'm going to someone house, taking my children there to play, will I need to rush home suddenly because I get a phone call?"
"How many phone calls will I get while I'm there? Will that mean someone figures I have this secret that I'm afraid, really alone and can't talk to anybody.
"You just feel so much guilt, and as a parent we are putting our children in this situation. However you must learn this isn't your fault, you're not alone, and by reaching out someone can support you and help you through this."
How to get help
If you are in immediate danger, call 999
If you can’t speak, cough or tap the handset then press 55 on your phone
– the police will know it’s an emergency.
If you need to speak to someone about domestic abuse concerns, for yourself or someone else, call the Oasis helpline:
0800 917 9948
Oasis helpline hours:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 9:30 – 11:30am, 12:30 – 2:30pm
Thursday, Friday 9:30 – 11:30am
For help outside of these times call the free 24/7 national helpline on
0808 2000 247