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Domestic violence campaign backed by police

Cleveland Police is supporting 'Tweetathon' - a campaign aimed at highlighting the effect abuse has on children. They will tweet every time they are sent to a domestic violence incident on March 6.

The figures released as part of a national In Focus week show:

  • 3551 under-fives saw police arrive at incidents in 2013
  • 1900 6-18 year olds were in the home when police arrived to a report of domestic abuse

“We are fully supporting the Police in this campaign, children and young people are often the hidden victims in domestic violence incidents and we all need to think about the impact that this can have on children. We have some good services in Middlesbrough and a real ambition to stamp out this crime by working together. The best advice is to seek help at the earliest opportunity and keep safe”

– Director of Services at My Sister’s Place, Becky Rogerson

Specialist officers and support agencies are also urging victims to seek help and take the first brave steps to break free from these damaging relationships, if not for themselves but the sake of their children.

“These figures are stark and provide a glimpse into how domestic abuse ruins many lives. Perpetrators are controlling and manipulative, some do admit their behaviour and work to change but the majority don’t.

“I know victims do try and shelter their children as much as possible from an abusive relationship, but ultimately the only way to prevent emotional and psychological damage is to seek help and break free.

“There are many victims who do leave for the sake of their children, and go on to live safe and happy lives thanks to the support available.”

– Temporary Detective Inspector Simon Walker from the Protecting Vulnerable People Unit