Support workers at Derby Community Safety Partnership say there is a steep rise in cases of abuse in the home at this time of year.

Helplines have been set up for both abusers and the abused but if in doubt victims are urged to call the police.

Anyone who thinks they may be at risk is advised to get advice before the situation gets more serious.

Meanwhile, officers in east Staffordshire have drawn up lists of people to monitor over the festive period to make sure they do not reoffend.

Dena Trussell from the partnership said: "Domestic abuse is a very complex issue, it's all around belief systems, power and control.

"My advice to people is obviously if you are in a situation then dial 999 and get some help."

She added that Derbyshire Police have officers specially trained to deal with such issues.