4 December 2009, 09/286
Extra plans to tackle domestic violence in run-up to
Christmas
Victims of domestic violence are being urged to give themselves
the best Christmas present yet by seeking support.
The message is part of an awareness campaign that is being run
during the festive period across West Lancashire to tackle domestic
violence because it is one of the busiest times of year for
incidents.
Between December and January there is always an increase in
reports of domestic violence.
To reassure victims that there is support out there, the West
Lancashire Community Safety Partnership - of which West Lancashire
Borough Council is the lead agency - is sending out a warning to
perpetrators that it won’t be tolerated.
Posters are being put up around the borough to highlight the
problem and to give out advice and helpline numbers for
victims.
Messages are themed around: awareness; how it affects children;
perpetrators and the possible warning signs - which includes
partners being controlling, jealous and possessive or
criticising.
Cllr Paul Greenall, Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, said:
"Christmas for most of us is a time of fun and family, however, for
some the emotional strain of the season can contribute to a rise in
domestic violence. It’s outrageous and hard to believe, but there
are more incidents of domestic violence related assaults recorded
on Christmas Day compared to the daily average. We are committed to
tackling this hidden cowardly violence which takes place behind
closed doors, which is why I hope our campaign will see an increase
in people coming forward."
Domestic violence can be anything from hitting, punching,
pushing and slapping to strangling, name calling and threatening.
If you think you are a victim of domestic violence, contact the
West Lancashire Women’s Refuge on 0808 100 3062 or Women’s Aid
National on 0808 2000 247. Abusive partners can contact the Respect
helpline on 0845 122 8609.
Bill Taylor, Chairman of the Community Safety Partnership, said:
"We recognise that domestic abuse increases over the festive period
and we want to reassure victims that they should come forward and
that we will support and protect them. We also want to continue to
send out the message to perpetrators that they will be arrested.
Our goal is to keep as many victims as safe as we can this
Christmas and lock up those who commit these offences.
"However, we realise that domestic violence happens all year
round and victims need the best possible protection, no matter what
day it is, which is why we will continue to work hard with our
partners to tackle this heartbreaking issue."
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