14 - Valentine’s Day warning

For most people Valentine’s Day will be a romantic affair, however research shows there is a considerable increase in domestic abuse during this time. 

 

For a second year Dudley domestic abuse forum is running its ‘you said it would be the last time’ campaign, which is aimed at the perpetrator’s of violent behaviour. 

 

Part of the hard-hitting campaign will see two 12 ft banners displayed outside Dudley and Stourbridge police stations in an attempt to hit home about the consequences of violent and psychological abuse.

 

Domestic abuse affects one in four women and one in six men.   It is a crime and can affect anyone regardless of age, sex, religion, disability or lifestyle. 

 

Both men and women experience domestic abuse.  It accounts for one quarter of all violent crime and it is reported that more than three million children each year witness violence in the home. 

 

A third of all crimes committed are violence related, which includes domestic abuse.

 

“There is more support than ever before for victims of domestic abuse and their children in Dudley.  There are alternatives to staying in an abusive relationship.

 

“The council, in conjunction with partners has recently published a domestic abuse strategy for the borough, which for the first time clearly sets out joined up working across many agencies to tackle the issue of domestic abuse.

 

“Victims of domestic abuse can call 07964 221489 or 07972 775395.”

 

“The campaign focuses on the offender rather than the victim, encouraging them to think hard and face up honestly to the things they have done.  The abuser may have harmed their partner once or twice, but in many cases a pattern to the abuse does develop.

 

“Offenders are urged to call 0845 122 8609 to get help immediately, before it’s too late.”