30,000 Domestic Abuse Sufferers in Devon
It's estimated that there are about 30,000 people suffering abuse behind closed doors in Devon.
But only about a tenth get help.
Police have been called out to 25,000 incidents of domestic abuse in Devon and Cornwall in 12 months and in more than half the cases alcohol was a factor.
Abusers often use drunkeness as an excuse for their violence behaviour. But the campaign, run jointly by Devon’s domestic abuse partnership adva,(against domestic abuse and violence in Devon) and Devon and Cornwall Police, maintains alcohol is no excuse.
It's encouraging those at risk – or their friends, family or colleagues - to notice the warning signs of domestic abuse, particularly where alcohol is an aggravating factor.
Alcohol is also widely used by bullies to control their victims, both by addition and by losing them credibility when they seek help.
Rachel Martin, Manager for adva, which is led by Devon County Council, has been talking to our reporter Wendy Buckingham.
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Around 200 people a month are referred to the support group Addaction. Sarah Mitchell says their aim is to break the cycle of alcohol and drug dependence and domestic violence. They work with about 45 families a week.
Pete Rosser runs Repair which helps men change their abusive behaviour. But funds are limited and the year-long course can only help a handful of men in each Devon area a year.
Help and support
• 24-hour National Domestic Violence Free phone Helpline - 0808 2000 247
• Devon Alcohol Service referral line: 0845 130 2605
• Cornwall Drug and Alcohol Service: 01872 263001
• Information, advice and helpline numbers are available on the