Increase In Domestic Abuse Reports

After a two month campaign to encourage people to report domestic abuse, Thames Valley Police has told heart they have seen an 8% increase compared to the same period last year.

They launched the campaign in May in partnership with Domestic Abuse Co-ordinators and Crimestoppers. It's aimed at increasing awareness and promoting early intervention to break the cycle of abuse.

In the last two months, 5,949 domestic incidents were reported to Thames Valley Police, compared to 5,509 for the same period last year.

The majority of domestic abuse still goes unreported, and the focus of the campaign was to encourage people to contact either the police, Crimestoppers or specialist support agencies.  

The campaign urged family, friends, neighbours, and colleagues to come forward and let the police or other agencies know if they suspect someone is being abused.

A dedicated website www.speakouttoday.co.uk and video was launched to provide practical information for victims and those supporting them, and included vital links to national and local support services.

Det Supt Nora Holford, Thames Valley Police's head of Protecting Vulnerable People, said "As a result of the campaign, 440 extra reports were made to police, which means there are 440 more victims getting the support they need to break the cycle of domestic abuse.

"Although this targeted campaign has come to an end, Thames Valley Police continues to take all reports of domestic abuse very seriously and encourages people to come forward and report any concerns they may have. The Speak Out Today website remains live for people to visit for advice and support, and if you don't want to give your name you can report this anonymously via Crimestoppers or call one of the specialist organisations."