Rochdale blows the whistle on domestic abuse

Susannah Boubaker, Deputy Co-ordinator for the Omega Women's Centre in Rochdale says 'end the fear'

It’s make or break for England tomorrow, but local agencies are concerned that win or lose some relationships might still suffer.

A new campaign has been launched in Rochdale borough and across Greater Manchester during this year’s World Cup encouraging victims, their friends and families as well as those committing the abuse to seek help and support next time it ‘kicks off’ at home.

Susannah Boubaker, Deputy Co-ordinator for the Omega Women's Centre in Rochdale said: “It’s a shame that such a prestigious competition such as the World Cup has the potential for such fatal consequences but it appears that football and booze clearly leads to greater incidents in domestic abuse. All over Rochdale borough, you might have already noticed the striking posters particularly on display in Rochdale Town Centre. Let’s hope they go some way in reminding abusers that whatever happens on the pitch, they should not take their frustrations out on their loved ones.

“To victims, their families and friends, our message is to seek help and the earlier the better, even if it is just to find out your options, local support is available. If you’re a victim of domestic abuse - or know someone who is - then please call the Omega Women's Centre in Rochdale on 01706 718923 or log on to www.omegawomenscentre.com for help, advice and support. Alternatively, you can call the Greater Manchester Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0161 636 7525, or log on to www.endthefear.co.uk.”

A series of striking posters incorporating images of a football shirt, a remote control and a broken beer bottle are on display across the borough in locations such as hospitals, doctor’s surgeries and licensed premises, while adverts will run on buses across Greater Manchester.

X Factor and Happy Monday’s star Rowetta is also backing a Greater Manchester domestic abuse campaign that launched in Manchester on 7 June.

Rowetta said: “This campaign is so close to my heart, as most people know, I escaped from a very violent marriage. If I hadn't found help, and a refuge, I doubt I would be here now. I thought I had no way of escaping, and I didn't think I had the courage. Everybody going through abuse needs to know that there is a way out.”

Supporting this campaign is the 10 local authorities including Rochdale Borough Council, Greater Manchester Police, the Greater Manchester Domestic Abuse Helpline and Greater Manchester Public Health Network.

Superintendent Chris Hankinson of Greater Manchester Police for Rochdale Division, said: “We have specialist domestic abuse officers on duty at key times during the tournament to ensure that full support is available to those in need. Our partner agencies, for example the Omega Women’s Centre in Rochdale also provide valuable help for victims.

“Abusers need to be clear that the World Cup doesn’t justify any type of abusive behaviour. Support services are available for them to get help with their anger issues, but if they choose to become violent or abusive then we will arrest them and ensure that they face the consequences. Our priority is always to protect victims.”

Rowetta concludes: “This problem will never go away, but hopefully more and more people will see that there is help out there and no matter how weak you feel, you can regain your strength and get your life back, as I did.”

For more information about those services available to help stop domestic abuse, people can visit: www.endthefear.co.uk Those responsible can also get help to stop by contacting the Respect Phoneline: 0845 122 8609.