The Bunbury Service Centre has pleaded for those in need to seek help over the Christmas and New Year period.
Department of Human Services social work support support manager Amanda Clarke has been involved in social work for over 30 years.
Ms Clarke said her department often saw an increase in cases of domestic violence over the holiday season.
“It’s a time where families get together for Christmas and, for some families, they’re put in a situation where they don’t necessarily see that they’re spending a lot of time together in an enclosed space with lots of other family members and lots of misunderstandings,” she said.
“You mix that with a bit of alcohol and stresses and strains happen.”
Ms Clarke wanted people to understand the seriousness of domestic violence in a community setting.
“In terms of domestic violence, a lot of people don’t realise what is happening – they feel bad, they know something is wrong but they don’t always know that what is happening is domestic violence,” she said.
“As a social worker, our main role here is to do those safety assessment to make sure people have left the situation or have a safe alternative, and then help start the process of applying for things such as income support.”
Ms Clarke said the department also helped people with accommodation and finding links to counselling services.
Those seeking support can contact 1800 RESPECT (737 732), Rural Link on 1800 552 002 or the Family Relationship Advice Line on 1800 050 321.
Read more: