Cumbria Police are working with partner agencies to help support domestic violence victims at this time of year.
Statistics show that during the Christmas and New Year period, domestic violence dramatically rises, with 1st January 2013 seeing the average number of incidents rising to 48.
Cumbria Police strive to increase reporting of domestic abuse so that the appropriate support can be given to victims and their families. For the last three years there has been an increase in the number of incidents reported, which can be a good indication that victims want help and are prepared to contact the police.
This warning follows the Police and Crime Commissioner’s conference on Friday (6th November) which launched his further commitment to tackling domestic abuse and sexual violence.
Work continues throughout the year to ensure that any victim is given the help and support they need to break the cycle of violence. Essential partners such as Let GO provide services which can help people build their confidence to get out of an abusive relationship or situation.
The Probation Service works closely with offenders to provide them with counselling and support to enable them to control their anger and prevent them from hitting out at someone, especially a loved one.
Detective Superintendent Mike Forrester said:
“Our aim is to help those people who are subject of domestic violence. It is so important that when victims find the strength to report their abuse to us that we have the right people to provide the necessary support and advice.
“Some people struggle to understand domestic abuse and have the perception that the victim should just leave on the first occasion when they are abused. However, it is not that easy for some. Victims are often emotionally abused to the extent that they believe that their abuser is the only person there for them, they can be manipulated to cut themselves off from friends and family and left feeling that they are on their own.
“Our focus this week is to bring to everyone’s attention that there are groups out there who can help and support any victim.”
Police and Crime Commissioner, Richard Rhodes said:
“Domestic abuse cannot and will not be tolerated. It is important that everyone from family, friends and partner agencies work together to give the victims the support that they need to come forward.”
Mark Barrow, Divisional Manager Cumbria & Lancashire for Victim Support, said:
“Never forget that it is a crime for someone you know to attack you in your own home or elsewhere – whether they are your partner, a family member or someone you share your home with. Whatever the abuser might say, violence like this is never your fault. Nobody has the right to abuse you in this way.
“You do not have to suffer in silence. You can contact us in confidence and we can help you by talking with you, giving you emotional support and helping you to see and understand the choices that you can make to help stop the abuse. Whatever you chose to do, we know that your safety is the most important thing. The decision to take action against your abuser may be difficult. But if you do decide, at any time, that you want to report the abuse to the police, we can provide information and support. We can also support you if you choose to go to court.”
“You do not have to suffer in silence. You can contact us in confidence and we can help you by talking with you, giving you emotional support and helping you to see and understand the choices that you can make to help stop the abuse. Whatever you chose to do, we know that your safety is the most important thing. The decision to take action against your abuser may be difficult. But if you do decide, at any time, that you want to report the abuse to the police, we can provide information and support. We can also support you if you choose to go to court.”
Alcohol does have a major impact on domestic violence. At this time of year more people are out socialising and consuming alcohol, which impacts on their mood and behaviour.
As part of the continued Alcohol Harm Awareness campaign, launched earlier this year, Cumbria Police are appealing for everyone to drink within their limits and not to lose control.
Chief Inspector Terry Bathgate said:
“Police officers are often the first on the scene at a domestic violent incident, with a number of incidents being as a result of too much alcohol.
“It can be a difficult situation to control, with emotions running high and, on occasion, children can be present – witnessing the harm and destruction that domestic violence causes.
“We all aim for a happy and peaceful Christmas. If you are a victim of domestic violence, seek help. Do not spend another Christmas in fear.
“If you are going out drinking, keep within you limits, do not lose control and do not spoil Christmas for your family.”
Anyone with any concerns should call Cumbria Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Victim Support can be reached on 0845 3030900.
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