Published: Thursday 11th February 2016 | 1.47pm
Cannock Chase Council and partner agencies are raising awareness of domestic abuse this Valentines Day and highlighting how victims can get help.
Valentine’s Day is about celebrating the love between two people, however for some men and woman living in the District valentines will just be another day.
The campaign aims to reduce the number of sexual and domestic violence cases as well as encouraging victims to report their abuse.
Campaign messages will displayed on our website and social media, female victims are being urged to contact Staffordshire Women’s Aid on 0870 2700 123 and male victims are being encouraged to contact Arch on 01782 205500.
Councillor Carl Bennett, Portfolio Leader for Crime and Partnerships said “Often victims of domestic abuse suffer in silence. We want to raise awareness of this issue in the District and let residents know that advice and support is available to get victims and offenders the help they need. As on Valentine’s Day domestic abuse often goes off the radar.”
Staffordshire Women’s Aid provides support to women and children, as well as male victims, living with domestic and sexual violence in Cannock District. Dickie James, Chief Executive Officer said “It is particularly hard for victims who are living with domestic abuse at times such as Valentine’s Day because relationships are supposed to be about love and trust. It is so important at this time that we work in partnership in Cannock Chase to convey the message that abuse in relationships is always unacceptable, and to help victims feel safe in coming forward to seek help. We are available 24 hours a day via our Help Line on 0870 2700 123 for anyone who needs help and support, or just wants someone to talk to.”
Richard Hughes, Arch Male Victim Support Worker said, “Domestic abuse can happen to anyone, male or female, and male victims have the same legal rights to protect themselves as women. Many myths surround male domestic abuse but every one in three cases of abuse happens to a man. Arch offers confidential support for male victims of abuse and their families so please don’t suffer in silence and contact us on 01782 205500.”