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Police and Crime Commissioners have joined Chief Constables to support a week-long campaign to raise awareness of domestic violence and highlight new schemes that give the police additional powers to protect victims. The aim of the campaign is to encourage more people living with domestic abuse to seek help.

Tony Lloyd, Police and Crime Commissioner for Greater Manchester and Chairman of The Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, said:

“Tackling domestic abuse is a key priority for Police and Crime Commissioners. Domestic Abuse is unacceptable and encompasses a number of different crimes. Last year, the Office of National Statistics claim there were 2 million incidents of domestic violence.

“Police and Crime Commissioners understand the need to create an environment where domestic abuse is not tolerated and where our children and young people grow up to recognise the value of healthy relationships.

“Domestic abuse occurs in all walks of life and victims must be confident that their needs will be taken into account should they take the brave step to disclose information.

“Greater support for victims should be offered in the workplace. Police and Crime Commissioners are working with businesses to help employers spot the signs of domestic and sexual abuse amongst employees and offer support or a route to safety.

“Police and Crime Commissioners are also very supportive of their local refuges and other support services which continue to play an important role in supporting victims. I want to encourage greater co-ordination between support groups and the police to ensure that victims feel confident to speak out.”