Police urge victims to lift lid on abuse
VICTIMS of domestic abuse in Halton have been urged to lift the lid on their suffering and change their lives for the better,
As residents make their New Year’s resolutions, Cheshire Constabulary has called on those affected by emotional, psychological and physical abuse to seek support.
A spokeswoman for the force said there is usually a rise in domesticrelated incidents over the late December and New Year period.
She said more than 800 crimes were dealt with in December 2015 and January 2016.
Police said domestic abuse does not discriminate regardless of gender, social group, class, age, race, religion, disability, sexuality and lifestyle and can happen at the start of a relationship or years later.
The constabulary has created a video featuring a Christmas present box full of angry voices that the force hopes will chime with victims’ experiences and encourage them to come forward.
Detective Chief Inspector Gareth Lee, of the constabulary’s public protection unit, said: “This time of year can be one of the hardest for ● those abuse.
“We know that victims often suffer in silence for the sake of their families so that they don’t ‘ruin Christmas’.
“But now is the time to be brave, have a fresh start and begin the year by having the courage to put a stop to it.
“We want people to know that 2017 can be the year they no longer have to suffer at the hands of their abuser.
“We have specialist officers available to listen, provide support and suffering from domestic help victims move away from the situation they’re in.”
David Keane, Cheshire Police And Crime Commissioner, said: “I want anyone who is suffering from domestic abuse to know that if you come forward and speak to the constabulary you will be taken seriously.
“There are specialist services across the county to make sure that you can get the support you need and you have a police service who are committed to help.”
Victims can call the Halton Domestic Abuse Service on 0300 111 1247 or the National Domestic Violence Helpline, which is run 24 hours a day and free.
Residents worried about their behaviour can find help from Respect on 0808 802 4040.
In an emergency call 999 or to speak to the police in a non-emergency situation dial 101.
For more information about Domestic Violence Protection Orders visit http://www.cheshire. police. uk/ advice-- information/ domestic- abuse/ dv- protectionorders.aspx