“A peak was reached in 2020-2021, during Covid restrictions and periods of lockdown. Taken together, 2022 and 2023 numbers returned to a similar level to those seen before the coronavirus pandemic.” 

In 2023 there were 59 cases of domestic abuse reported to Citizens Advice. Out of these cases, 62 victims were identified: 48 were female, 14 were male. 

“This percentage may be compared to the latest ONS England and Wales victims survey data which shows approximately 67% of victims were female and 32% were male,” continued Citizens Advice. 

“While our data show a small increase in proportion of male victims year on year, male victims remain fewer in Guernsey. It is likely that many people are reluctant to contact us or the Police, but the domestic abuse of males may be particularly under-reported in Guernsey.” 

Pictured: Types of domestic abuse reported. 

The charity, while not being the first port of call for people experiencing domestic abuse issues, has gathered its data while supporting people through financial, personal, and housing difficulties, which are often ancillary in cases of abuse. 

“The evidence shows that incidents of physical and mental domestic abuse remain at a high level, with women being particularly impacted.  

“CAG does not record the number of children impacted. Domestic abuse is costly in human and financial terms. It is one of the top two reasons for children being put on the child protection register and costs to the public purse are also high. According to the States of Guernsey website: “Every week more than 11 incidents of domestic abuse are reported and Guernsey Police respond to over 600 calls a year”, but much of both the impact and extent of domestic and sexual abuse remains hidden.” 

It has welcomed the Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Strategy which was adopted by the States in 2022.