Don’t let abuse victims suffer in silence at Christmas
MOST of us will have an enjoyable time at Christmas – but, for domestic abuse sufferers, it can be a time when their recurring nightmare becomes even worse.
The West Lancashire Community Safety Partnership (WLCSP) is sending a message to victims that help is available for those suffering during the festive period.
In December last year and January this year, there were a total of 71 crimes reported as domestic abuse in West Lancashire.
Between January and September this year, the West Lancashire Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference heard about 137 high-risk cases of domestic abuse.
The organisation has responsibility for putting in place action plans for such cases.
There were 823 women, 180 children and 128 men referred to the Liberty Centre (West Lancashire) between January and early December this year.
The centre was unable to accept a further 48 women and 59 children into its refuge, as there was no room at that time.
Anyone who is forced to alter their behaviour because they are frightened of their partner’s reaction is classed as being abused.
Research has shown that abuse can happen at any stage of a relationship and is very rarely a “one-off”. One in four women will suffer from domestic abuse at some stage in their lives.
In 50% of domestic violence cases, the children can be hurt, too, either by being subjected to violence themselves or witnessing it.
West Lancashire Borough Council’s portfolio holder for health and community safety, Cllr Kevin Wright, said: “It is important to stress that, while more than 80% of victims in domestic violence cases are women, men are also the victims of domestic abuse.
“If you are reading this and think you are a victim of domestic abuse, or you think someone else may be a victim, please talk to someone you trust. “Or you can call the police, or the Liberty Centre or a national helpline.”
West Lancashire police inspector June Chessell said: “We cannot allow victims of domestic abuse to suffer.
“We will act to bring perpetrators to justice whenever we can and will work with our partner agencies to support victims to leave abusive relationships.” Last month, WLCSP joined the Liberty Centre (West Lancashire) to launch the social media campaign: “Make the call. Don’t be a bystander”.
It encourages people who are aware that a friend, relative or colleague was suffering from domestic violence, to get some support, advice or assistance.
West Lancashire Borough Council also supports the White Ribbon Campaign, a global movement to put a stop to male violence against women and girls.
The Liberty Centre has a free, confidential 24-hour helpline number, 0808 100 3062, which is open to callers over the Christmas period.
The centre’s confidential counselling and legal advice services for victims will open every day except Bank Holidays.
A full service will be provided throughout the festive period at The West Lancashire Women’s Refuge, which offers short-term emergency accommodation.
The chief executive of the Liberty Centre, Eleanor Maddocks, said: “Domestic violence does not stop because it is Christmas. For too many women and children, this will be a time of living with intimidation, fear and violence.
“The Christmas period, which is meant to be a time of happiness and joy, is often the most difficult time for them.”
For more details about services available to people suffering domestic violence, visit www.westlancs.gov.uk/ domestic violence
Victims of domestic violence or abuse who prefer not to use the phone can now contact The Liberty Centre via Facebook or www.thelibertycentre.org. uk
The Broken Rainbow national helpline numbers for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people are 0800 999 5428, and 0300 999 5428.
Police can be contacted on their non-emergency number 101 and callers should specify their location, or in an emergency ring 999.