Police call to end the fear of domestic abuse

Karen Harrison of the Women's Domestic Abuse Helpline and Chief Constable Peter Fahy

Greater Manchester Police is today (Monday 25 November) mounting a week-long operation to tackle the predicted rise in domestic abuse incidents in the run up to Christmas.

Last year, there were 1,526 reports of domestic abuse incidents over the festive period, which is a rise of 27 per cent, compared to the average number of calls police receive over a 7-day period throughout the year. Boxing Day and the day after saw that figure rise to 34 per cent, with more than 240 reports of domestic abuse each day.

The operation will see officers from across the Force target the most prolific offenders and, with partner agencies, be visiting victims who have frequently called police to ensure they are aware of the help and support that is available to them.

Working closely with Victim Support and Independent Domestic Violence Advocates (IDVAs), officers will be contacting individuals who are at a high risk of harm to remind them of the long-term support that can be provided to them. These include obtaining civil orders, the right to know about a partner’s past, using the powers of the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme, as well as the support available to them throughout the judicial process.

Detective Chief Superintendent Vanessa Jardine, Head of the Public Protection Division said: “Over the Christmas period we historically see an increase in the number of domestic abuse incidents and we are expecting to see a rise again this year.

“This is due to heightened family tensions, unrealistic expectations and worries about finances, which when fuelled by excessive drinking, can lead to an increase in the number and severity of attacks.

“We will be targeting the abusers and using all the powers in place to us to remove them from the home. Whether a victim feels able to complain or not, we can provide them with the space to gain the strength and confidence away from their abuser to consider their choices.

“We would encourage anyone suffering abuse to report it and get the help and support to stop it as in many cases it does escalate– it very rarely stops.”

This operation supports the International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women and the Police and Crime Commissioner’s campaign to encourage people to report incidents of domestic abuse and raise awareness of the support available to victims.

Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd said: “Christmas should be an enjoyable time for people, but for some families it can be a time of fear, with many victims suffering in silence at the hands of someone who is supposed to love and care for them.

“We need to give victims confidence to come forward and report domestic violence and raise awareness of the help and support that’s available to break the cycle of abuse and help them rebuild their lives. That’s what this operation is about and is an example of some of the work across Greater Manchester to tackle this appalling crime.”

It's important to break the silence and talk to someone. If domestic abuse is happening to you, or someone you know, please call the Police on 101 or the Greater Manchester Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0161 636 7525 for help and advice, or visit endthefear.co.uk.

Always call 999 in an emergency where there is a risk to life or crime in progress.