Domestic abuse calls over Christmas period increase

The number of domestic-abuse related calls to the PSNI over the Christmas period has risen from the previous year.

Police received 1,407 calls from 20 December 2025 to 2 January 2026, an increase of 117 from the year before (1,290).

It is the fourth highest figure recorded in the last 10 years and police say the increase "is sadly something that has become a consistent pattern".

Detective Superintendent Kerry Brennan said the figures show that domestic abuse "does not pause for the holidays, and in many cases the risk actually increases".

Brennan said the festive period can often place additional pressures on households, with the increased time together, financial pressures, socialising and more alcohol consumed in the house.

"It just becomes a really high pressure situation and a victim can try to keep a lid on things, but sadly that's not the case - prepetrators will want to abuse," she said.

Brennan added that the increase in figures might not mean the number of domestic abuse incidents have gone up, but that victims were prepared to contact officers.

"This is about making people feel safe so it's encouraging that people are reporting to us," she told BBC News NI's Evening Extra programme.

"Our message is domestic abuse isn't a private family matter, it's a serious criminal offence and we really want people to realise that and identify that."

The highest recorded number of calls was made on New Year's Day (1 January 2026) when 116 reports were made to the PSNI.

On Christmas Day, 115 calls were made.

Kelly Andrews, who is head of Women's Aid in Belfast and Lisburn, said these statistics were "very sad and heartbreaking".

"When you think of Christmas, it's supposed to be joyous and opening presents... so I think it's really, really sad."

Andrews said the uptick in reported calls was most likely down to awareness and increased confidence in accessing support.

"I hope that people would have the confidence to reach out," she added.

"I know it can be very challenging to make that big step but there is help and support available."

Anyone who is suffering domestic abuse can contact police on the non-emergency 101 number or 999 in an emergency.

A 24-hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline is also available to anyone who has concerns about domestic or sexual abuse, now or in the past on 0808 802 1414.