What do you see?

Domestic Abuse doesn’t take a holiday in Summer

FORCEWIDE

The sun is out, the BBQ is on, the nights are lighter, the school holidays are in full swing, and we’re 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, especially when events like the football are on too, 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 by asking 'Is that me?' so they can 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.”