Lancashire Police launch #NoExcuseForAbuse campaign for festive period
Support and advice offered to victims of domestic abuse this Christmas
Lancashire Police are urging victims of domestic abuse to seek help and support during the festive period as they launch their #NoExcuseForAbuse campaign.
The campaign, running throughout December, aims to provide advice, information, and access to support for those facing abuse, particularly during a time where reports of domestic abuse typically increase. Over 2,000 crimes related to domestic abuse were recorded in December 2024 alone, highlighting the urgency of action.
What is domestic abuse?
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.”
Abuse can occur in various relationships, including couples, parents, grandparents, or wider family members. It spans all ages and genders and can take many different forms, from physical actions to emotional or financial control.
Chief Inspector Ruth Atherton from Lancashire’s Vulnerability Governance Unit highlighted potential triggers during the festive season:
“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.”
Support available
Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw emphasised the importance of access to expert support, saying:
"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."
The campaign is supported by local charities, councils, healthcare services, and partner organisations. Victims and their loved ones are encouraged to visit www.noexcuseforabuse.co.uk for more information, advice on recognising the signs of abuse, and contact details for local support agencies.
How to get help
If you or someone you know may be at risk of abuse, visit the #NoExcuseForAbuse website to access help and learn more about the signs of abuse and available support.
Lancashire Police continue to emphasise that there is no excuse for abuse at any time of the year.