Support for domestic violence victims

People from Rochdale suffering from domestic violence will have access to support after Greater Manchester Police (GMP) created a new department to deal with the problem.

GMP is joining forces with the National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV) to provide victims of domestic abuse with an additional service to help them obtain civil injunctions against their partner.

“Getting a civil injunction is an option that victims of domestic abuse can pursue regardless of whether or not a criminal offence has been committed and NCDV can provide victims with additional protection from their abusive partner,” said Assistant Chief Constable Terry Sweeney, GMP’s lead officer on domestic abuse.

“There are a number of services already available in Greater Manchester to support victims through the civil process but our partnership with the NCDV will provide an additional outlet for those in need to turn to. The NCDV can help by providing free legal advice and will liaise on behalf of the victim, with a number of approved solicitors.”

Tomorrow, (Friday 11 June), the NCDV will be launched in Greater Manchester. It is a telephone-based service that offers anyone access to fast and free legal advice and support 24 hours a day. Since its introduction it has obtained over 35,000 injunctions and has been launched in partnership with 19 police forces across the country.

Mr Sweeney continued: “With the start of the World Cup only days away, we anticipate a rise in domestic abuse incidents. Therefore, as well as the partnership with the NCDV, we have already launched a campaign with the 10 local authorities, the Domestic Abuse Helpline and the Greater Manchester Public Health Network to urge victims, their friends and families as well as those committing the abuse to seek help and support during the World Cup period.

“It is crucial that victims know that there is a range of support services available to them and they don’t have to suffer in silence.

“Furthermore, offenders should be warned that if they breach a civil order, they could be committing a criminal offence and we will arrest them.”

Dr Stephen Connor, Chief Executive of NCDV said: “NCDV is delighted to join forces with Greater Manchester Police to tackle domestic abuse. We want to actively and publicly show that this is a problem that can affect everybody but that help is available.

“Action can now be taken in both the civil and criminal courts to prevent someone from being abusive to their partner and ensure that they are held to account. By working together we can ensure that victims do not have to tolerate this cowardly crime.”

Anyone who would like to access the services offered by the NCDV can call 0844 8044 999