A local Shrewsbury solicitor is urging victims of abuse to report any abusive circumstances, following reports that cases of domestic violence spike over the festive period.

Layla Blackmore, Family Solicitor at Shrewsbury-based PCB Solicitors, is encouraging victims to come forward and report any cases of domestic abuse to family, friends or authorities after statistics show Christmas and New Year commonly result in a peak of domestic abuse cases. 

In 2012, 1.2 million cases of domestic abuse reports were made, but findings from the Citizens Advice Bureaux suggest over half a million victims are too scared to come forward, so statistics could actually be significantly higher. Many cases may also be unreported as domestic abuse is often considered to be violent or threatening behaviour, but actually encompasses psychological, sexual, financial and emotional abuse.

“For many of us Christmas is a time to relax with our families, but for some individuals, Christmas is a time of fear and dread. The extended holidays means the abuser is at home much more than usual, and the financial pressures can exacerbate relationships,” explained Layla. “And it’s not just the victim that can be affected by domestic abuse, many children in homes witness the violence and often get caught up in the middle of an incident in an effort to make it stop.

“Although it is frightening to come forward and get help, I’d urge any victims who have experienced any form of domestic abuse to get in touch to get confidential legal advice. Unfortunately, many individuals are still suffering in silence, but many services and charities are on hand to help victims who have come, or want to come out of abusive relationships. For more information please contact me by calling 01743 237114 or emailing me at on layla.blackmore@pcblaw.co.uk,” Layla concluded.

PCB Solicitors LLP is a modern partnership, with offices in Shrewsbury, Broseley, Church Stretton, Craven Arms, Knighton, Ludlow, Telford, and Worcester. While they have origins back to 1860, the firm is forward-looking and offers a full range of legal advice for both individuals and businesses, including property, family advice and childcare matters, wills, trusts, probate and estate planning, accident and personal injury, litigation, criminal law and corporate and business law.

For further information about PCB Solicitors’ complete range of legal services, please contact the Shrewsbury Head office on 01743 248148 or visit the website using the link.