'Real spike' in abuse reports, Manx charity warns

There has been a marked rise in people seeking advice and support following abuse on the Isle of Man in the lead up to Christmas, a charity has said.

Victim Support Isle of Man has reported that about 20% more people have come to them for help in December than in the same month last year.

The charity offers aid to victims and witnesses of crime, whether it has been reported to police or not and regardless of when it happened.

Chief executive Lorna Trevethan said the pressure of the Christmas period often causes a rise in reports of abuse, but it is normally January when the numbers increase the most.

She said December is usually quieter, but this year it was "really bizarre" and they had "seen a real increase in numbers compared to last year".

The unusual trend had also happened elsewhere in the year, she explained, with another hike in the summer.

Ms Trevethan said: "In August we're normally very quiet during the school holidays with people being away, but actually we saw a real spike in numbers.

Despite the rise in referrals, Ms Trevethan believes it is down to an increased "willingness to talk" about abusive situations, rather than a rise in abuse itself.

She said: "In the past, domestic abuse has been a very taboo subject, people brushing it under the carpet."

But people are becoming more and more "willing to talk about it more and seek advice and help", she added.

She also said that abuse, in various forms, takes place "more than people realise" and there is "no stereotype".

"We see people from all walks of life, all different backgrounds, and we are seeing more men coming forward as well," she said.

Victim Support, alongside the Department of Home Affairs, is campaigning this winter to urge more people to speak up in abusive situations, as well as look out for other people potentially at risk.

Ms Trevethan said: "Christmas can bring financial stress, increased alcohol consumption and family tensions, all of which can exacerbate abusive behaviour.

"For victims, particularly the elderly, this time of year can feel even more isolating. We want people to know the signs and feel empowered to act."

There were a number of ways people can spot if something might be going on, beyond more obvious signs of physical harm, including clues about coervice control, she explained.

These included sudden changes in behaviour, a nervousness around spending money, or changes in spending habits.

People could also look out for signs of fear or anxiety around a partner or family member, as well as poor hygeine, a lack of basic care, or changes in weight.

She said: "If it doesn't look right and it doesn't feel right, then do ask the question."

Ms Trevethan also chairs the Domestic Abuse Forum, looking at the island's refuge provision.

Strengthened domestic abuse laws were introduced in early 2023 with further updates to legislation made in March 2024.

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