For most of us Christmas is a time of love, happiness and fun. But for many people Christmas can be the most difficult time of the year.
Statistics have shown a seasonal surge of domestic violence at Christmas year on year. Factors such as the financial pressure of Christmas, increased stress and anxiety and increased alcohol intake are often reported as causes for incidents of domestic violence.
“Our school has been given the opportunity to take part in a national project, which is being run locally in partnership with Shropshire Council and West Mercia Police.
Operation Encompass is a process whereby the police and the council will inform a member of staff if a child or young person has experienced any domestic abuse incident. This will be done prior to the start of the next school day. Information sharing between professional agencies allows school staff to provide emotional and practical support to their pupils experiencing domestic abuse.”
Attached is a list of local and national advice and support agencies who can help those who may be affected by domestic abuse. We very much hope you won’t need them but they are on the last two pages of the letter coming home today and on the pdf below.
The letter states ‘We want to offer the best support possible to all our pupils…’ we also want to support you the parents/carers if or when you need us so please don’t ever be afraid or embarrassed to ask for help.