Angelina Jolie gives advice to women fearing abuse over Christmas period

Angelina Jolie has offered advice to people who may be in fear of domestic abuse over the Christmas period.

The actress is supporting the UN’s 16 Days of Activism initiative against gender-based violence.

Speaking to Harper’s Bazaar she said to ‘try to find allies’ and ‘be connected for emergencies’.

The Maleficent star feels it is important to ‘agree a code word with a friend or family member’ so you can let them know if you need help.

However she did warn that ‘you can’t assume all friends and family will always want to believe and support you’.

Angelina continued: ‘Often it will be strangers who help. Or other victims, support groups, or faith groups. Above all, be careful.

‘Only you really know the danger you are in, and until you find your support outside, you may feel quite alone.’

When asked what motivates her to want to take part in the campaign, the star explained she simply ‘values women’.

‘We don’t take domestic or gender-based violence seriously enough anywhere, and we often overlook the trauma and injury suffered by children who witness or experience violence, in their own homes.’

The mum-of-six has been vocal about her activism for women for years and recently urged them to ‘know their value’.

Speaking during a National Democratic Institute discussion in July, Angelina said: ‘Women contribute so much, they are giving, are nurturing by nature, are community-building by nature, are strong, are intelligent, and yet what is it that’s holding us back?’

Who to call if you need help

For emotional support you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline, run by Refuge and Women’s Aid, on 0808 2000 247.

If you are in an LGBT relationship you can also call the helpline run by Broken Rainbow and Galop UK, on 0300 999 5428 or 0800 9995428.

Male victims can call also the Men’s Advice Line on 0808 801 0327.

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