We’re supporting North Wales Police by promoting their important message that they remain on hand to help victims of domestic abuse and encourage victims not to suffer in silence.
They also warn they will deal robustly with abusers regardless of the Coronavirus lockdown.
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As victims and abusers are likely to be confined during these difficult times there is a likelihood that numbers reporting domestic violence will go down because there is no opportunity to report incidences.
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As part of an ongoing effort to reassure victims, and to remind abusers that this crime is still being dealt with North Wales Police are distributing cards and leaflets to supermarkets and food banks for them to be included in online and click and collect orders. If you are able to get involved and help victims get this important information please contact your local neighbouring policing team.
Support that is available for victims of domestic abuse
Chief Executive, Ian Bancroft and Council Leader, Cllr Mark Pritchard, agreed that this vital work is very important particularly during these periods of confinement at home: “We would like to thank your colleagues in North Wales Police who are highlighting the continued support that is available for victims of domestic abuse. Please get in touch and don’t suffer in silence. Help is on hand.”
North Wales Police will also be completing leaflet drops and encourage anyone to come forward if they know of someone or if they themselves are being abused.
Victims of domestic abuse are advised
- There is never an excuse for domestic abuse of any kind’ whether it’s violence or controlling or threatening behaviour.
- Don’t suffer in silence. Do not listen to advice that says the police won’t be able to or are too busy to help. Officers are there for you, as they always have been.
- If victims find themselves in an emergency situation they can use the “Silent Solution”. When calling 999 press 55, listen to the questions from the 999 operator. Respond by coughing or tapping the handset if you can. If prompted press 555 to let the 999 call operator know it’s a genuine emergency and you’ll be put through to the police.
PC Mike Taggart Strategic Domestic Abuse Officer said; ““This is a difficult and stressful time for everyone, especially for victims of domestic abuse, who are forced to spend more time with their abusers.”
“There is never an excuse for domestic abuse of any kind; whether it’s violence or controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour.”
“Our message to victims is clear. Don’t suffer in silence. We are here for you and our specially trained officers will support you throughout and deal firmly with offenders. If you are being told that Police won’t be able to, or are too busy to support you, this is not true, we are here for you as we have always been.”
“Our message to abusers is also clear. We will not tolerate domestic abuse and we will take appropriate action – we are still operating as normal, we will respond to calls of domestic abuse and we will still enter your property if required. Covid-19 will not deter us from protecting victims of domestic abuse.”
There’s a link below to North Wales Police website and a list of agencies which offer support and advice and details of other places where support is available.”
https://www.north-wales.police.uk/advice-and-support/stay-safe/domestic-abuse
Hourglass UK Helpline: 080 8808 8141 (freephone) Website: www.wearehourglass.org
Age Cymru Advice Free and confidential information and advice on matters affecting the over 50s in Wales.
Tel: 08000 223 444 E-mail: advice@agecymru.org.uk
Alzheimer’s Society National Dementia Helpline: 0300 222 1122 Website: www.alzheimers.org.uk
Care & Repair Cymru – Care & Repair Cymru are a national charitable body that aims to ensure older people have homes that are safe, secure and appropriate to their needs. They can assist people who are owner occupiers or living in privaterented housing. There is a network of local Care & Repair Agencies across Wales. Call your local agency on: 0300 111 3333
Website: www.careandrepair.org.uk
Citizens Advice Bureaus (CABs)
National network of free advice centres offering confidential and independent advice, face to face or by telephone.
Tel: 03444 77 20 20
Details of your nearest CAB can be found at: www.citizensadvice.org.uk
Live Fear Free Helpline
A free helpline offering advice and support to those affected by violence against women, domestic abuse, or sexual violence against men and women. Tel: 0808 8010 800 (lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and the call will not show on your bill) Website: https://livefearfree.gov.wales/
There is also a live chat option on the website, if this is safer for you.
Men’s Advice Line
A confidential helpline for men experiencing domestic violence and abuse.
Tel: 0808 801 0327 Website: www.mensadviceline.org.uk
Protect
Protect (previously called Public Concern at Work) is an independent ‘whistleblowing’ charity. They aim to protect society by encouraging people to whistleblow about serious wrongdoing in the workplace.
Advice Line: 020 3117 2520 Website: www.pcaw.org.uk
Samaritans
The Samaritans service provides emotional support for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which may lead to suicide.
Confidential Samaritans Helpline: 116 123
Concerned about your own or someone else’s behaviour?
If you – or someone you know – are abusive or violent towards a partner or family member you can get confidential help and support by calling 0808 802 4040 or emailing info@respectphoneline.org.uk.
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