Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (Commissioner), David Allen urges people experiencing domestic and sexual abuse to come forward as specialist support services are available and can be accessed directly, as well as through the Police, over the Christmas period.
David Allen comments: “It is a sad fact, that during the festive period, domestic abuse related crimes increase. For some people, Christmas can be the most dreaded part of the year.
“Over Christmas, when the majority of businesses, shops and workplaces are closed, victims of domestic abuse can feel isolated and vulnerable.
“If you’re experiencing domestic abuse and feel frightened of, or controlled by, a partner, an ex-partner or family member, it’s important to remember that it’s not your fault and there is no shame in seeking help. You do not have to wait for an emergency situation before you access help and support.
“I need to raise awareness of the fact that even if people have not reported the matter to the police, there is a whole wealth of support services available in Cumbria. These include counselling, financial advice, substance or alcohol misuse or emotional health/wellbeing support.
“Crisis support and non-judgmental advice is also available any time of the day or night via The Bridgeway’s free helpline, 0808 118 6432. Anyone wishing to self-refer to the Bridgeway, if you don’t feel able to contact the police, will be supported by them and any report will be dealt with confidentially.
“I would like to take this opportunity to encourage any victim of domestic or sexual abuse to report it to Police. I understand that it is difficult for some people who have been victims of abuse to come forward, however, the Police are here to help, your report will be taken seriously and appropriately investigated.
“No one should feel that they are alone and have to suffer in silence. Help is out there, and support services can be accessed 24/7, over Christmas and the New Year period.
“Even if right now you only have questions, I would urge you to make contact. Getting the right support can empower someone to take their next positive step forward.”
Detective Chief Inspector Gemma Hannah said: “Christmas should be a happy time and in itself this time of year is not a cause of domestic abuse.
“But environments involving high emotions and alcohol consumption can sometimes lead to violent or abusive behaviour.
“Domestic abuse and protecting vulnerable people are priorities for us all-year round. Nobody should ever have to suffer domestic abuse – and if you’re scared, there is help out there.
“Tackling these awful crimes and safeguarding vulnerable people is a key priority for us. We take reports seriously and we treat all cases with sensitivity.
“If you are suffering, please get in touch.There is a whole wealth of support services available in Cumbria. As the police, we can help you access these support services.”
Useful contacts:
24hr Supportline Victim Support 0808 1689 111
24hr Live Online Chat facility www.victimsupport.org.uk/help-and-support
National Domestic Abuse Helpline 0808 2000 247
The Freephone National Domestic Abuse Helpline, run by Refuge on 0808 2000 247
Respect Men's Advice Line on 0808 8010 327
Mankind Initiative 01823 334244
LGBT Domestic Abuse Victims 0800 999 5428
More information is available at:
If you wish to report to the police, you can do so online at Report a crime | Cumbria Police. You can also phone on 101. Always phone 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress.
If you can’t speak and are calling on a mobile press 55 to have your call transferred to the police. Find out more information on how to call the police when you can’t speak: Silent Solution | Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC)