KENT Police and other organisations are reminding people that help will be available throughout Christmas to anyone suffering domestic abuse.

The message, they stress, is clear: don’t suffer in silence.

Kent Police spokesman Jon Green said: "Christmas may not be the happiest time for everyone. There is the expectation that families are enjoying each others' company, having fun, children waiting for Santa, opening presents, enjoying good food.

"However, for families where domestic abuse is an issue, Christmas can be a more miserable and isolating time than usual.

"In a family where there is an abusive partner, Christmas may turn out to be a time where the presents are smashed, assaults take place and there is shouting and screaming going on. And of course there will be tears.

"So what happens? Who do you call? Where do you go for help during the Christmas season?

The Domestic Violence Information Line 01303 220810. It is available 24 hours a day and someone will speak to you about your options. In an emergency call the police.

PC Pauline Smith, a police officer who specialises in dealing with domestic abuse cases, says: “We know that domestic abuse goes on for many years, with one in four women and one in six men experiencing domestic violence. We also know that many, many people do not come forward to report this.

"Some people accept that this is the normal way of life and will minimise their situation for many reasons. It could be because of embarrassment, fear, or that they feel they are wasting our time and will not be believed.

"Nothing could be further from the truth. We actively encourage people to come in or phone up and talk to us. Although it is a frightening prospect, help is there.”

“Many people will have the odd row, or disagreement but when things start to get out of hand, it may be wise just to go for a walk to clear the air and give everyone chance to calm down.

"Why do there have to be "winners"? Why not negotiate or agree to disagree? Why not ‘communicate’ with each other, try to sort things out amicably and not cause unhappiness and upset to all concerned?”