Domestic Abuse doesn’t take a holiday in Summer
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FORCEWIDE
The sun is out, the BBQ is on, we’re counting down the days to the football. The nights are lighter, the school holidays are upon us, and we’re looking forward to spending more time with the family. Sadly, there can also be a dark cloud over the light summer nights, with some people suffering in silence. We often see a rise in domestic abuse over the summer period, and as always, tackling this remains a top priority for us.
That is why we have launched our latest campaign ‘What do you see?’ which focuses on all forms of domestic abuse, also aimed at getting perpetrators of domestic abuse to recognise their own behaviour and get the support they need to stop.
With an increase in alcohol consumption, financial pressures, and more time spent off work with family members, this can often lead to prolonged periods of emotional and physical abuse within relationships and homes. For some, the school holidays aren’t something they look forward to. It can be a very difficult time for families, and we recognise that a number of people are affected by some form of domestic abuse each year, many of whom are children and young people.
Domestic abuse can happen to anybody at any time, it is not discriminatory on age, sexual orientation, gender, background, or religion. However, we do see women being disproportionately affected by domestic abuse, and tackling violence against women and girls remains an utmost priority for our force.
We work with a range of supporting organisations and charities who can help us in guiding you with a way forward for you and your family, away from your abuser.
Officers and staff within our Domestic Abuse Safeguarding Investigation Team (DASIT), Protecting Vulnerable People (PVP) Unit, and Safeguarding Governance Unit have a clear focus on protecting the most vulnerable in our communities, and look at the best course of action against any suspect or offender.
Not only this, but there is more focus on those who commit abuse to encourage them to face up to the damage caused by their actions and seek help to change.
Superintendent Phil Booker from our Protecting Vulnerable People Unit said: “Protecting vulnerable people continues to remain a high priority for us as a force, and that does not change during the summer holidays.
“For some people, this can be the most feared time of the year. A combination of financial pressure, alcohol consumption and extended time at home with the family can often fuel abusive relationships so we want to do everything we can to support those who may be suffering.
“Each year, cases of domestic abuse, continue to rise over the summer period. Domestic abuse can take many forms; it isn’t just about sexual or physical abuse. It also includes financial, coercive control or emotional abuse, digital or online or honour-related abuse such as forced marriage or Female Genital Mutation (FGM).
“Stalking and harassment can amount to any behaviour which brings persistent and unwanted attention, whether in person or psychologically, including what is known as cyberstalking.
“We want to reassure vulnerable people that we are on hand to help. Working with partner agencies, we have specialist staff available to signpost or offer vital help and support to you, your friend or anyone affected to break the cycle and get away from violent and controlling partners.
“These are extremely intrusive crimes which relate to similar but different offences that can cause victims, their families and loved ones physical, psychological, and emotional harm.
“We take all incidents extremely seriously and we would encourage anyone who believes they have been a victim or witness domestic abuse, in any form, to contact us as soon as possible. To report domestic abuse call us on 101 or if you’re in immediate danger, always call us on 999.”
SUPPORT
North Lincolnshire
North Lincolnshire’s Community Safely Partnership works together to protect you, aide in your safety and help to prevent any further incidents.
They offer support to anyone who is aged over 16 living with domestic abuse or those who wish to flee domestic abuse.
Domestic abuse team on telephone number 01724 240314.
Amber Project Domestic Abuse Support Service on telephone number 01724 289299 (office hours)
Broken Rainbow UK 24-hour help line for LGBT couples on telephone number 0300 999 5428.
Blue Door helpline on telephone number 0800 197 4787
North East Lincolnshire
To speak to someone about help, advice, and support, please contact:
The Domestic Violence Liaison Worker on 01472 721225 or 07837269439 (office hours only)
Women’s Aid (24 hours) on telephone number 01472 575757
Domestic Abuse Helpline for male victims on telephone number 01472 588888.
Broken Rainbow UK, 24-hour help line for LGBT couples on telephone number 0300 999 5428.
East Riding
Prevention of Domestic Abuse Service (PODAS) can be contacted via telephone on 01482 396708 or 396706.
Domestic Violence and Abuse Partnership (DVAP): Helpline: 01482 396368
Website: www.eastriding.gov.uk/living/crime-and-community-safety/domestic-violence/
Email: [email protected]
Hull
Strength To Change -They can be contacted via telephone on 01482 613403.
Preston Road Women’s centre can be contact on 01482 790310
Hull DAP Male Victim Support: Helpline: 01482 613978 Website: www.hulldap.com/support/male-victims/