Domestic violence incident every 15 mins on Merseyside
Shocking figures reveal an incidence of domestic violence takes place every 15 minutes on Merseyside.
Shocking new figures have revealed a domestic violence incident is recorded every 15 minutes on Merseyside.
More than 30 thousand cases took place over a 12 month period - including violent crimes and sexual offences.
About half of violent relationships involve violence by both partners and a staggering 90% of domestic abuse is witnessed by children. The short and long term impacts on children are huge, on behaviour and educational achievement as well as physical and mental health, including increasing the risk of suicide and self-harm.
1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men have suffered domestic abuse with two women killed every week and two men killed every month in the UK by their partners.
James’ parents had an abusive relationship. He says it’s something no children should have to grow up with;
‘‘I really started to notice it when I got into my teenage years and I found that I was the person having to step in between my Mum and my Dad to stop them from fighting.’’
‘Be a Lover not a Fighter’ is now being run across the North West to encourage survivors to speak out about their experience.
Matthew Ashton, Chair of Champs and the Director of Public Health spokesperson for the campaign said:
“We have to make a stand against domestic abuse to show collectively that it is not acceptable. Nationally 750,000 children a year witness domestic abuse. By wearing the ‘Be a Lover not a Fighter’ badge and pledging support for the campaign we can hopefully make more people understand how domestic abuse has significant psychological consequences for everyone involved. It’s crucial we deliver this campaign to make people aware of the issue, what people are going through and how they can make a difference.”
‘‘As part of the discussion, videos of support with the celebrities showing their ‘heart hands’ will be shared on social media for the public to join in with their own and public engagement events where people can talk to experts and pick up a badge will be taking place across areas in Cheshire, Merseyside and Lancashire.’’
For more information about the campaign, where the engagement events are being held or to find out how you can pledge your support go to www.lovernotfighter.org.uk.