Let’s make a stand against domestic violence, says Police and Crime Commissioner

Let’s make a stand against domestic violence

Rochdale’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Tony Lloyd, is calling on communities to stand together and say no to domestic abuse.

One in four people will become a victim of domestic abuse in their lifetime and two people die each week at the hands of a partner or ex-partner.

In Rochdale, Greater Manchester Police dealt with 5,284 cases of domestic abuse in the 12 months to September – an increase of 484 compared with the previous year. While an increase in incidents suggests that more people are coming forward to report domestic abuse, there are still many cases that go unreported.

Mr Lloyd said: “These figures should shock us all into making a stand against domestic violence if we are serious about ridding society of this crime which has untold, long lasting effects on victims and their children.

“While the increase in reporting suggests that more people have the confidence to come forward, there are still too many victims suffering in silence. We all have a responsibility as decent human beings – whether a friend, relative, teacher, neighbour, doctor – to speak out for victims and stand up against the perpetrators.”

Throughout November, Mr Lloyd will be encouraging people to report domestic abuse and raise awareness of the services and support available to victims. He is also encouraging councillors, MPs, partner agencies and Rochdale residents to sign a promise to work together and say no to domestic abuse.

You can sign up to the promise at: www.gmpcc.org.uk/endthefear

Mr Llyod will be visiting refuges, support groups and organisations to see some of the work that is going on to support victims of domestic abuse. Greater Manchester Police, victim support services, the Crown Prosecution service and other agencies will also be giving evidence on how they are tackling the issue are a series of hearings throughout the month.

“All agencies - police, CPS, courts, Rochdale Council, victim services - need to work together to do the very best for victims,” adds Mr Lloyd. “They have the right to expect a minimum standard from all parts of the criminal justice system and that is something, as Police and Crime Commissioner and the voice of local people, I’m challenging all partners to deliver.

“There has been progress across Rochdale in tackling domestic abuse, such as the establishment Independent Domestic Abuse Advisers, the introduction of Clare’s Law, and raising awareness to encourage reporting, but there is a long way to go. I want to give more victims the confidence to come forward and raise awareness of how to get help and what support is available to help them rebuild their lives.”

Councillor Sultan Ali, cabinet member for Strengthening Communities at Rochdale Borough Council: “We’re really pleased that the Police and Crime Commissioner for Greater Manchester has made domestic abuse a priority, as it has a huge impact not just on victims, but on their friends, family and wider society. We all have a responsibility to look out for each other and I would urge anyone who suspects domestic abuse to report it. Don’t leave victims to face this alone.”

If you, or someone you know, has suffered domestic violence, help is available. Visit www.endthefear.co.uk for more information or call Greater Manchester’s domestic violence helpline on 0161 636 7525.

If there is an immediate risk of harm to someone, or it is an emergency, dial 999.

The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme, or Clare’s Law, can be used by anyone concerned over a partner’s abusive behaviour or those concerned about a friend or family member in a relationship and at risk of violence by their partner. For further information or to make a request for information under it, contact Greater Manchester Police on 101 or visit a police station.