Domestic abuse: victims urged to seek help

Domestic abuse – does that sit right with you?

The pressure of Christmas and New Year can lead to an increase in domestic abuse incidents and victims in Greater Manchester are being encouraged to take the first step and ask for help.

Bev Hughes, Greater Manchester Deputy Mayor, said: “We often think of a new year as an opportunity for new beginnings so there is no better time to take that first step to speak out and get help to break the cycle of abuse. My message to anyone who is suffering abuse is: you are not alone, we are sitting right with you. There is support available, whether you want to involve the police or not.”

One in three women and one in six men experience some form of domestic abuse. Abuse is not just physical violence, controlling what someone wears, their money, where they go, who they talk to is damaging and is abuse.

The 'Sitting Right With You' campaign encourages people to think and look differently about what makes a healthy relationship, using powerful messages such as ‘he checks my phone all the time’, ‘she has control over my bank accounts’, and ‘I can go out with friends when he says it’s ok’.

Ms Hughes added: “Now is a good time to take a hard look at your own, or a loved one’s relationship. Does your partner control your money, isolate you from family, belittle you in front of friends? These are signs of an unhealthy relationship and early help is available to stop things escalating to tragic consequences.”

Detective Superintendent Denise Worth, from Greater Manchester Police, said: “Domestic abuse is a priority for us all year round but unfortunately, we do see an increase in incidents following the festive period. Heightened family tensions, financial worries and excessive drinking can lead to a rise in the number of attacks.

“There is a way out and I would urge victims to seek help and put an end to the misery. We have specially trained officers who can and will offer victims and perpetrators the help and support they require.”

To find out more, visit:

www.sittingrightwithyou.co.uk

If you or someone you care about has been affected by domestic abuse, contact the Greater Manchester domestic abuse helpline on 0161 636 7525.