Lincolnshire’s new campaign to help victims of domestic abuse

A new campaign is launched in Lincolnshire today (Wednesday) to help people recognise the signs of domestic abuse – and to encourage victims to seek help.

The launch coincides with White Ribbon Day, a national campaign which promotes men working to end violence against women.

Lincolnshire Police and its partners will be focusing on wider aspects of domestic abuse – not just violence against women – and these will include its effects on children and teens.

Other aspects covered will include stalking and harassment, honour based violence, forced marriage, female genital mutilation as well as LGBT and male victims of abuse.

Detective Superintendent Rick Hatton, who heads the Lincolnshire Police public protection unit, said: “I hope the campaign can reach out to people in the county who need information about domestic abuse, in all its forms. It’s an important area of work for us, there is no typical victim of domestic abuse, it can happen to anyone.

“We have started our 16 day campaign purposely on the start of the White Ribbon Campaign which is about men working to end violence against women. I think it’s an incredibly strong message to send.

“If you know anyone who is suffering from domestic abuse, they can get information and support from the police, domestic abuse services across the county, or healthcare workers, amongst others. I want victims to know we won’t tolerate domestic abuse and will take action to stop it.”

The Lincolnshire Police domestic abuse co-ordinator, Sarah Norburn. said: “We recognise that domestic abuse occurs every day of the year, however over these 16 days of action we will highlight domestic abuse to all members of the community and encourage victims to come forward and seek help.

“The campaign highlights that domestic abuse is not just physical assaults, there is often a significant amount of psychological and emotional abuse.

“We ask everyone to think about the signs of domestic abuse, consider your friends, family or work colleagues. We want to help and we can help, say ‘no’ to violence and abuse. Together we can stop it.”

• Anyone with concerns about domestic abuse can call police on 101.

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