The Police Service of Northern Ireland has published data showing a sustained rise in domestic abuse calls throughout the recent holiday season, underscoring the significant pressure victims face during this time.

In the period between 20 December 2025 and 2 January 2026, the PSNI received 1,407 calls related to domestic abuse. This figure represents an increase from the 1,290 calls recorded during the same timeframe the previous year. The data also reveals that the 2025-26 total is the fourth highest recorded over the last decade.

New Year's Day saw the highest volume of reports with 116 calls, followed by 115 on Christmas Day and 114 on 27 December. Detective Superintendent Kerry Brennan noted that the trend has become a "consistent pattern" over several years, exacerbated by holiday-specific factors. Detective Superintendent Brennan stated: "The increase in domestic abuse calls we see over the Christmas and New Year period is sadly something that has become a consistent pattern over many years. This time of year can place additional pressures on households, including increased time spent together, financial strain, alcohol consumption and heightened emotional stress.

"For some victims, these factors can escalate controlling or abusive behaviour, while for others the extended time at home can reduce opportunities to seek help or speak to someone in confidence.

"What these figures show clearly is that domestic abuse does not pause for the holidays, and in many cases the risk actually increases. Police and support services were available throughout this period and remain available 24/7 365 days a year, victims should never feel they are 'wasting our time' by coming forward. We are here to help."

Police continue to stress that domestic abuse can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender or background, and that help is available. 

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone else, is encouraged to contact police. In an emergency, call 999. If it is not an emergency, police can be contacted on 101 on via online reporting: www.psni.police.uk/report

Friends, family members and neighbours are also urged to remain vigilant and to report concerns, as early intervention can help prevent further harm.