Take back your lives’

I AM pleased that Hillingdon’s police will be sing cameras to literally apture their first visit to a omestic violence victim oon after the event.

“The evidence can be sed in any prosecution even the victim decides not to o ahead with a prosecution.

“Domestic violence is all about control and victims need to take back and control their lives. It’s not easy, but this borough has a fantastic network of people able to offer support.

“I hear over and over again from victims that they won’t press charges because they love the person who has beaten them. My answer is simple: ‘Someone who loves you, doesn’t hurt you’. Basic as that.

“Also, children who witness or hear domestic violence could be affected for life and unless the problem is addressed, when they grow up they will think that domestic violence is acceptable.

“I am very proud of the work I have done over the years to highlight domestic violence and am thankful for the council for believing in what I do and supporting me. I have had my critics for my no-nonsense approach, but I can live with that if it helps victims leave destructive relationships.

“The council has an excellent domestic violence section on its website – http://www.hillingdon.gov. uk/article/7046/Accessinghelp – which is continually being upgraded.” Councillor Janet Gardner

is Hillingdon Council’s domestic violence victims’

advocate