Domestic violence victims urged to speak out

SENIOR police officers are urging people suffering from domestic violence to speak out after what is traditionally the worst periods of the year for victims.

Festive celebrations saw alcohol flow in many households over Christmas and New Year’s Eve and officers believe that there is a direct link between excessive drinking and violence within the home.

This week officers vowed to “vigorously investigate” incidents of domestic violence and assured the Rotherham public that South Yorkshire Police have dedicated officers and resources in place to deal with the issue.

Supt Peter Norman said: “People’s safety is our key priority, whether it is their safety whilst they are out celebrating or whilst they are at home.

“Domestic violence cases seem to increase over the Christmas period and we would like people to report such cases as soon as possible, no matter what time of the day.”

Domestic abuse currently accounts for 18 per cent of violent crime.

It has more repeat victims than any other crime and claims the lives of two women each week in the UK.

Supt Norman said: “Domestic violence can come in a variety of forms, not just physical abuse. Therefore, people need to be aware that mental and other none physical abuse will be treated the same and not one takes precedence over another.

“Our policy is too act positively, make arrests and pursue prosecutions.

“We aim to reduce the number of domestic violence incidences but in order for us to do this we are asking for people’s help.

“We cannot help combat this if victims don’t report it.

“We ask people to not suffer in silence and report domestic violence as soon as possible, reducing the chance of them becoming repeat victims.”

Non-emergency calls can be made to South Yorkshire Police by dialling 101.