Christmas can be a time of joy, reunions and renewing family bonds.

It can also be stressful with in-laws over, meals which you want to try and get right (ordering out just isn’t going to work!) and with the current climate, financial pressures.

One of the support systems provided locally is the Hertfordshire’s Domestic Abuse Helpline 08 088 088 088. It will be operational from 10am to 10pm over the Christmas weekend and the three Bank Holidays (Monday 27, Tuesday 28 and January 1) as well as its normal hours of 10am to 10pm Monday to Friday. It provides confidential advice to those affected by or concerned about domestic abuse.

You can also find out more at the newly-launched website www.hertssunflower.org.

So keep safe, keep happy and enjoy the season, even with the relatives!