THE Christmas trees are up and the mercury is rising, signalling the arrival of what is a joyful time of year for most.

For others - women and children who are victims of domestic violence - it indicates the impending onset of fear, violence and hopelessness.

Christmas and the new year are peak periods for domestic violence incidents.

Chair of the Warwick DV strategy group Bette Bonney said there were a number of factors that made this a more volatile time of year for affected families.

"Unfortunately it is a combination of things, one of which seems to be an extra consumption of alcohol in the hot weather," she said.

"This, combined with financial pressures related to Christmas and then back to school in the new year, can cause issues for some people."

Mrs Bonney said that women who knew this was a troublesome period for them should try to make plans ahead of time.

"While everyone has to go through it a first time, the majority of domestic violence incidents are a cycle and they have experienced it before," she said.

"It is important for them to know there are people who can help them make plans and strategies on how to cope and how to keep themselves and their children safe.

"This can include reaching out to other networks in town, even if it is getting the children to stay somewhere safe for the night."

Families are advised to know their financial limits this Christmas and Mrs Bonney advised against surrendering to the temptation to over-spend.

"Parents can explain to their kids that they may not be able to afford the toys or games they want, but they can substitute them for doing other simple things throughout the holidays," she said.

Mrs Bonney said it was also important for abusive men to realise they could make the change.

"We are encouraging men to make good decisions on how much they drink, how much they spend and focus on being a good leader and role model," she said.

GET HELP

24-hour domestic violence helplines:

• dvconnect women's helpline 1800 811 811
• dvconnect men's helpline 1800 600 636
• Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800