Police release shock figures showing scale of abuse on Valentine's Day

Police in Leeds are calling for action to be taken against domestic abuse as the force are deeming Valentine’s Day to be yet another day of abuse.

Last year West Yorkshire Police received 152 reports of domestic violence incidents on Valentine ’s Day and aim to reduce the figure.

Police stress to the public to be cautious if they suspect someone may be in danger from domestic abuse, that they should report their concerns immediately before it’s too late.

Assistant Chief Constable Catherine Hankinson said, “For many of us Valentine’s Day is a day where many of us share love and affection, but for others it’s just another day for abuse.”

“There can be obvious signs of domestic abuse such as cuts and bruises but, sometimes the signs are more subtle.”

“It’s really important that we bust the myth that domestic abuse is always physical because it isn’t. Mental abuse can be just as serious of an impact on the victims and the family.”

Perpetrators are being offered help and support to help them overcome their problems. As well as offering help to victims and families involved.

If you are a victim or know someone who could be, call police on 101 or if it’s an emergency dial 999.