Hartford, CT - The Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV) warns that the potential for domestic violence tends to increase over the holiday season. CCADV and its member domestic violence agencies across the state are available and ready to respond to any crisis involving domestic violence, including the abuse of children.
The importance of safety planning around the holidays should not be underestimated. Domestic violence advocates throughout Connecticut can help keep the season safe for victims by sharing with them some holiday-specific safety tips including starting new holiday routines, meeting family and friends in new locations unknown to the abusive partner, and avoiding shopping areas and/or events where they may unexpectedly see their abusive partners.
"We would like to think that domestic violence is down during this celebratory season, but during the holidays domestic violence is one of those categories where a lot of incidents go unreported," CCADV Interim Executive Director Karen Jarmoc said. "For victims who are still in abusive relationships, they hope it'll get better. Some get caught up in the holiday spirit, where everything seems to be full of hope and miracles."
Jarmoc says the holidays are particularly trying since most victims are home from work and spending unusually long periods of time with an abusive partner, creating greater opportunities for volatile situations. An abuser knows the victim wants to be with family and friends and often uses this to get a tighter grip on their victims. Jarmoc is encouraging victims who find themselves in this situation to take advantage of CCADV services - especially if they are unable to be with their family and friends.
Help is available through one of 18 community based domestic violence agencies in Connecticut. Each agency offers free services to victims 24-hours-a-day including a hotline, safety through shelter, counseling and support groups and help obtaining a restraining order. If you or someone you know needs support, call the statewide free and confidential hotline at 888-774-2900.
