VICTIMS of domestic violence have been urged not to suffer in silence this Yuletide.

During the festive season, incidents of domestic violence increase, fuelled by family tensions, alcohol and money worries.

West Mercia Constabularly has stepped-up its Home Truths campaign, which was launched in November to offer a lifeline to victims.

Insp Shane Lewis said: "Christmas should be a time of peace, goodwill, and spending quality time with family, but sadly people in abusive relationships are more likely to be physically assaulted at this time of year.

"The fact that people are off work, the stress of spending more time than usual with family, and drinking more than usual can mean tempers fray and people become aggressive, leading to an escalation of violence, or for some, violence occuring for the first time."

Insp Lewis urged family and friends not to turn a blind eye if they know that someone is being abused.

He added: "As for victims themselves, no one wants to spend the festive season in a refuge, but the important thing is to ensure their own safety, and that of their children."

One in four women and one in six men are expected to suffer domestic violence in their lifetime and the Home Truths campaign, which includes advertisements on buses provides helpline numbers for anyone wanting to leave an abusive relationship.

Over the next 12 to 18 months, the campaign will focus on supporting victims, convicting offenders and developing new intiatives.

By joining forces with other support agencies, including Victim Support, Domestic Violence Forums, Women's Aid, refuges and councils, the police hope to break the cycle and silence.

FACTS ABOUT DOMESTIC ABUSE

One in five violent crimes is linked to domestic abuse.

Five in six murders committed in West Mercia involve a history of domestic violence.

Nine in 10 incidents are witnessed by children under the age of 16, who are often abused themselves.

Incidents of domestic violence are rarely one-off events, a victim might endure up to 35 assaults before they seek help.

New legislation has been introduced which means that a prosecution can be pursued without the evidence of the victim.

Friends, family and neighbours have a role to play in reporting incidents or suspicions. This could save someone's life.

Only 35 per cent of domestic violence incidents are reported.

CONTACTS

To contact Women's Aid in Worcestershire call

0800 9803331.

For Herefordshire's branch call 0800 7831359.

Male victims can contact Mankind on 0870 7944124.

For men who have abused their partners and want to seek help, call Respect on

0845 122 8609.

West Mercia Constabulary's domestic violence units can be contacted on 08457 444888.

For more information visit www.westmercia.police.uk