A DOMESTIC abuse charity has revealed shock statistics showing Barnsley was responsible for nearly one-fifth of their entire referrals last year.
Independent Domestic Abuse Services (IDAS) released their 2025 impact report, which detailed concerning figures of cases across the borough.
The charity delivers specialist domestic abuse, sexual violence and accommodation services.
IDAS supports survivors across Barnsley, Doncaster, North Yorkshire, Sheffield and York.
Last year, IDAS responded to 20,762 referrals and 29,513 helpline calls.
Out of these statistics, the charity saw 3,884 referrals into the charity’s Barnsley service, with a total of 5,116 helpline calls.
This means that Barnsley residents were responsible for approximately 19 per cent of referrals and 17 per cent of helpline calls out of the overall figures.
This year, to combat these unprecedented levels of domestic violence, IDAS’s presence in healthcare settings has grown significantly to combat the issue.
At Barnsley Hospital, a lead independent domestic violence advisor was appointed to support staff disclosing abuse during occupational health appointments increasing referrals and raising awareness of specialist help within the hospital’s workforce.
Statistics show that IDAS supported 1,633 adults and 1,022 children, with the charity endeavouring to improve support for youngsters.
A contract extension enabled IDAS to continue their children and young people’s therapeutic pilot for a further year.
This will run alongside a comprehensive training programme.
The pilot has delivered one-to-one support in over 30 schools, with ‘Helping Hands’ group sessions for young people in more than 20 primary schools.
Referrals for people with no recourse to public funds increased from one per cent to two per cent overall.
This includes significant rises in Sheffield (54 per cent) and Barnsley (75 per cent).
These figures show a growing demand for specialist support that is available for people facing additional legal and financial barriers.
IDAS’s local area manager for Barnsley, Lauren Hirst, said: “Referrals to IDAS have continued to rise year on year, and evidence suggests that rates of domestic abuse in Barnsley remain high.
“Our service is well-equipped to respond sensitively to all aspects of domestic abuse and we are here for anyone in Barnsley who may need our support.
“If you feel unsafe, are worried about your relationship, or have concerns about a loved one, please do get in touch with us.
“Our helpline is open from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday and from 11am to 8pm, on weekends and bank holidays.
“Our trained, experienced and compassionate team are here to listen and provide the support you may need.”
