How to spot the signs of domestic and elder abuse this Christmas

Pressures of season can increase risk of harm to those in abusive situations

We're being urged to stay alert to the signs of domestic abuse and elder abuse during the festive season.

The Department of Home Affairs and Victim Support Isle of Man say friends, family and communities can play a crucial role in reducing isolation and supporting vulnerable individuals over the Christmas period.

The pressures of the season - be it through financial stress, increased alcohol consumption or family tensions - can increase the risk of harm in abusive situations.

Lorna Trevethan, CEO of Victim Support, explains what to look out for:

Justice and Home Affairs Minister Jane Poole-Wilson says: 'Abuse isn’t just physical, it can be emotional, financial, or coercive, and it often hides in plain sight. 

'The Department of Home Affairs has strengthened protections under the Domestic Abuse Act, increased support services, and is working closely with police and Victim Support Isle of Man to make it easier for people to speak out and intervene.'

What to look out for

Victim Support Isle of Man advises family, friends, carers and neighbours to be aware of warning signs:

• Unexplained injuries or frequent excuses for physical harm
• Withdrawal from social contact or sudden changes in behaviour
• Signs of fear or anxiety around a partner or family member
• Sudden changes in financial circumstances, including additional names on bank accounts or sudden changes to wills, deeds or other financial documents
• Neglect, such as poor hygiene, lack of basic care and unexplained weight loss
• Not managing their health needs, leading to potential deterioration in their physical health
• New friendships/relationships on which the person becomes significantly dependent
• Fear of spending their own money, or changes to spending habits, including bills going unpaid
• Valuable possessions going missing

How you can help

If you suspect someone is experiencing abuse:

• Arrange to see them on their own if possible and reach out in a safe and supportive way
• Listen without judgement and offer reassurance
• Contact Victim Support Isle of Man for confidential assistance and information
• Consider contacting the Adult Safeguarding Team on 685969 for extra guidance and support or contacting the Out of Hours Social Work Team on 650000 (via the Hospital switchboard)

There is support available to provide a victim with immediate protection following an incident of domestic abuse.

Restrictions upon perpetrators can include:

• Stopping him/her from entering, and being within a certain distance of a victim’s home
• Stopping him/her from making the victim leave or exclude the victim from their home
• Requiring him/her to leave the home
• Prohibiting him/her from having contact with the victim

You can report domestic abuse to the police via the non-emergency number 01624 631212 or use 999 if you are in immediate danger.

(Lorna Trevethan, Victim Support CEO outside the charity's offices in Douglas - Manx Radio)

Victim Support Isle of Man provides free, confidential support to anyone affected by crime, including domestic and elder abuse.

Help from Victim Support is available on 01624 679950 or email enquiries@victimsupport.im

There is more information on the Victim Support website and on gov.im

The Isle of Man Constabulary’s website provides more guidance.