NEW DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED
November 22 2006
Gloucestershire Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships are joining together with the Domestic Violence Support and Advocacy Project to promote a zero tolerance of domestic violence.
Stark posters featuring flowers placed on a gravestone, displaying the message "He beat her 50 times, She never rang the Police, He bought her flowers once" will be appearing across the county over the next few weeks.
The campaign, supported by Gloucester Rugby Club, carries a hard hitting message that domestic violence will not be tolerated. A fast track court is developing in the county to ensure that perpetrators will be swiftly brought to justice. Gloucestershire Constabulary takes domestic violence very seriously and officers do not necessarily need a victim’s statement to prosecute perpetrators. Perpetrators will be arrested - there will be no safe place for them to hide.
The campaign will be launched in Gloucester at the Magistrates Court Open Day on Saturday 25th November from 10.00 am - 2.00 pm and at various places across the county.
Stephanie Keeble, Coordinator of the Domestic Violence Support and Advocacy Project, said: "One in 3 women will experience domestic violence at some time in their lives. In Britain a woman dies every 2 to 3 days at the hand of her partner or ex partner and we want to get the message out to all victims of domestic violence that it will not be condoned.
"It is a basic human right to live your life free from violence, fear and intimidation - particularly in your own home. Don’t suffer in silence - help is available. We host a helpline on 01452 500115 and offer independent support and advocacy 24 hours a day.
"GDVSAP is delighted that an awareness campaign that challenges the culture of tolerance that exists towards domestic violence is being launched in the county and would like to thank the county Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships for the work they have done to enable this to happen."
Domestic Violence also occurs in 2 in every 5 same sex relationships and help is available through the same helpline or through GAY-GLOS on 01452 306800. Please don’t suffer in silence - pick up the phone and dial for help. In an emergency call the Police on 999.
Gloucestershire Constabulary’s Assistant Chief Constable Mick Matthews, who Chairs the Gloucestershire Safer and Stronger Communities Partnership, said: "We want to get a strong message to perpetrators of domestic violence - they cannot unwind from a bad day at work with a beer or glass or two of wine, and break their partner’s jaw. Some of these individuals can be quite charming at work, and turn into vicious bullies behind closed doors. This will not be tolerated - too often victims are so frightened by the bullying and beatings they will not report the attack, we intend to change that situation.
"If the Police have reasonable grounds, we will arrest perpetrators immediately - we no longer need a statement from the victim to make an arrest. And if the perpetrator has left the scene, we will track them down and bring them to justice to account for their unacceptable behaviour.
"I am delighted that the six Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships in Gloucestershire have joined together to launch this campaign across the county. Domestic Violence cuts across all boundaries of social group, class age, race, religion, sexuality, gender and lifestyle and we want to ensure that all victims are able to access the help that is available and have the confidence to come forward."
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