Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC), Peter McCall 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.
PFCC Peter McCall 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. This is why we need to raise awareness of the specialist support services available.
“No one should feel that they are alone, help is out there and support services can be accessed 24/7, over Christmas and the New Year period.
“I would like to take this opportunity to encourage any victim of domestic or sexual abuse to report it to police.
“We understand it is difficult for some people that have been victims of abuse to talk to the police. However, they are here to help, your report will be taken seriously and appropriately investigated.
“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.”
Detective Chief Inspector Vicki Coombes is the constabulary’s lead officer on the issue of domestic abuse. She comments: “Tackling these awful crimes and safeguarding vulnerable people is a key priority for the Constabulary.
“We take all reports seriously and we treat all cases with sensitivity.
“There is a whole wealth of support services available in Cumbria – this can include counselling, financial advice, substance or alcohol misuse or emotional health/wellbeing support.
“If you are suffering, please get in touch. Both the police and other agencies are available to help and support you.
“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.”
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
LGBT Domestic Abuse Victims 0800 999 5428
Mankind Initiative 01823 334244
In an emergency call the Police on 999
Call 101 for non-emergency enquiries or email 101emails@cumbria.police.uk
