Over 1,400 domestic abuse calls made to PSNI during Christmas and New Year in Northern Ireland

Domestic abuse-related calls to the Police Service of Northern Ireland increased over the Christmas and New Year period, reinforcing concerns that the festive season remains one of the most dangerous times of year for victims.

New figures released by the PSNI show that between 20 December 2025 and 2 January 2026, police received 1,407 domestic abuse calls, an increase on the 1,290 calls recorded during the same period in 2024–2025.

The data highlights sustained demand for police support throughout the two-week holiday period, with daily call volumes exceeding those recorded on most days during equivalent periods in 2023–2024 and 2024–2025.

New Year’s Day (1 January) saw the highest number of domestic abuse calls, with 116 incidents reported. This was closely followed by Christmas Day (25 December) with 115 calls, and 27 December, when police responded to 114 reports.

The figures underline that the risk associated with domestic abuse does not subside after Christmas Day but extends throughout the festive season and into the New Year, a time when many households face increased pressures.

Over the past decade, domestic abuse calls to police between 20 December and 2 January have ranged from 1,253 to 1,553. The 2025–2026 total of 1,407 calls represents the fourth highest figure recorded during this period.

Detective Superintendent Kerry Brennan said the seasonal rise has become a distressing and recurring pattern.

“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 have stressed that domestic abuse can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender or background, and are urging victims and those concerned about others to seek help as early as possible.

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or worried 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 or via online reporting at www.psni.police.uk/report.

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