AFTER dealing with 30 domestic incidents over a 24-hour period last week, police in Redditch are urging people experiencing domestic abuse to seek help.
As part of their recent 24-hour Tweetathon, the force published details of all types of calls they received and the particularly high number of domestic cases has prompted a push for domestic abuse support.
A spokesperson for West Mercia said: “Domestic abuse is a complex issue and a crime that remains largely hidden behind closed doors, leaving victims feeling trapped, powerless and isolated.
“However, abuse is rarely a one-off event and on average a victim will endure 30 – 35 assaults before seeking help.
“Experience suggests that friends, families and neighbours are often aware or suspect that something is happening but, for one reason or another, are reluctant to get involved – this is a mistake. Domestic abuse ruins family life and has long term, serious consequences for everyone concerned.”
Domestic violence and abuse is any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality. It can include abuse which is psychological, physical, sexual, financial and emotional.
Anybody who needs confidential help or advice can call the West Mercia Women’s Aid domestic abuse helpline on 0800 980 3331.
