You don’t have to suffer in silence

A special week is being held to raise awareness of the problem in Kirklees as added economic pressures take their toll.

And the message going out is: victims don’t have to suffer in silence.

The event is being organised by Kirklees Council in a link-up with the NHS, police, probation service, Kirklees College and the Pennine Domestic Violence Group.

There will be details of support available for victims – men, women and children – along with a poster campaign, new information on the council website and newsletters for college students.

Professionals say extra problems often arise during recessions.

Heavier drinking and money worries trigger a rise in domestic violence and many people often feel they have no choice but to flee.

Coun Peter O’Neill, council cabinet member for community safety, said: “Many people are feeling the added pressure of reduced incomes and demands on spending. With the threat of unemployment comes money worries and extra stress. For those affected by domestic violence, this can make matters worse.

“But the problem can be tackled if victims report it. Services are available to support them.”

Thelma Singleton, of the council’s domestic violence team, said: “This problem has many facets, including emotional and financial abuse and forced marriage. It is not only traumatic for adults, but also for children who witness the abuse.

“Victims need to know abuse is not their fault and they don’t have to put up with it. Just make the call.”

Help and support includes that offered by the Sanctuary Scheme which provides a free security service to enable victims – rather than perpetrators – to stay in their own homes. It was set up after figures showed that 20 per cent of all homeless applicants seeking help were victims of domestic violence fleeing abuse.

Homes are made safer through devices such as window and door locks, bolts, lighting and a special helpline.

Latest figures reveal that the number of incidents reported to police between April and June was 1,044, with 542 children present at the time. In 504 cases, alcohol was a factor.

Det Insp Granville Ward said: “Domestic violence is a serious crime and we don’t want anyone to suffer in silence. When victims call us, they will get the help and support they need.”

Dr Carsten Grimm, clinical lead at Alcohol Kirklees, added: “Alcohol doesn’t cause domestic violence, but offenders often have a problem with drink.”

Victims of domestic violence suffer repeat attacks more than those of any other crime.