Barr urges vigilance on domestic violence as pressures rise over winter

Inset: Councillor Alan Barr

Braid Ulster Unionist Councillor Alan Barr has urged the public to remain vigilant to the signs of domestic abuse during the winter months, warning that heightened financial, emotional and social pressures can place victims at greater risk across Mid and East Antrim.

Councillor Barr said “domestic violence is a serious crime. It devastates lives and families. It can be carried out by both men and women on their partners. Sadly, children can also bear the brunt of domestic violence, either by witnessing it or being at the receiving end of it.”

He stressed that abuse can present in multiple forms — not only physical harm but controlling or coercive behaviours that can be harder to recognise.

“Domestic violence takes many forms,” he added, listing physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, financial abuse and coercive control, such as “monitoring movements, isolating someone from friends and family or dictating daily activities.”

Winter risk factors

Councillor Barr highlighted several key pressures that can intensify abusive behaviour at this time of year.

He said risk factors often increase over winter due to:

• Financial strain: rising energy costs and holiday-related spending

• Isolation: families confined indoors for longer periods

• Alcohol misuse: seasonal drinking around festive gatherings

• Mental health pressures: stress and seasonal depression

These conditions, he warned, can leave victims with fewer opportunities to seek support or respite.

Call for community vigilance

To address the heightened risk, Councillor Barr called on the public to remain watchful for signs of abuse in their communities — including among friends, family members, neighbours, colleagues, and themselves.

He said: “if you recognise any of these signs, thankfully help is out there.”

Support services include:

• 24-Hour Domestic & Sexual Abuse Helpline: 0808 802 1414

• Women’s Aid NI: www.womensaidni.org / 028 25 632136

• Men’s Advisory Project (MAP NI): www.mapni.co.uk / 028 90 241929

• PSNI (emergency): 999

• PSNI (non-emergency): 101

“Stand together against domestic violence”

Concluding his appeal, Councillor Barr urged communities across Mid and East Antrim to take proactive steps to support victims and challenge abusive behaviour.

He said: “this winter, let us stand together against domestic violence. Let us be vigilant, compassionate and proactive. Every person deserves to feel safe in their own home. By breaking the silence, supporting survivors and working closely with the PSNI and local agencies, we can make our communities safer this winter.”