Hillingdon Borough domestic abuse campaign launched

As more people have been isolated during the Coronavirus pandemic, we’ve launched a new campaign across the London Borough of Hillingdon appealing for information from people who are aware of domestic abuse happening to friends, family, work colleagues or neighbours.
 
The campaign, commissioned by Hillingdon Council, is also urging people who are perpetrators of domestic abuse to get the help and support that is available to them via a number of agencies and a confidential helpline service. The Respect Phoneline on 0808 802 4040 is a confidential helpline for men and women who are harming their partners and families. The helpline also takes calls from partners or ex-partners, friends and relatives who have concerns about a perpetrator.

Domestic abuse can be physical, psychological, emotional, sexual or financial. It affects one in four women and one in six men during their lifetime. It’s estimated that a typical victim endures up to 35 assaults before speaking up, and in some cases, it can result in death.
 
Often neighbours, friends and family have suspicions, but are reluctant to get involved because of embarrassment, split loyalties or fear of revenge.
 
As an independent charity which has helped millions of people over the years, Crimestoppers is asking those with concerns in Hillingdon borough to pass on what they know, whilst staying 100% anonymous. Always.

“We know that in these worrying times, with people being asked to deal with huge pressures and changes, there is a real risk of domestic abuse incidents increasing. 
 
“It’s horrendous that, even in normal times, this country sees two women killed by a former or current partner every single week. That is totally unacceptable, but to tackle this serious crime, we all need to look out for each other. During this lockdown, partners in abusive relationships say they feel alone, powerless and trapped and are too scared themselves to speak out or go public.
 
"Frequently we hear from people that they were reluctant to flag up their suspicions about domestic abuse to the authorities, or unsure what to do. This is where Crimestoppers, as a charity, can help. We will take your information and pass it on for you. No one will ever know you called. Our UK Contact Centre is open 24/7 on freephone 0800 555 111, or you can fill in our simple and secure anonymous online form here on our website.”
 

“We are concerned by the increase in domestic abuse in Hillingdon, but are pleased that victims are coming forward to seek help. We encourage anyone experiencing domestic abuse to report it to the police or the charity Crimestoppers anonymously as soon as possible, so that they and their children can access the right support services before the situation gets any worse.
 
"We support this far-reaching Crimestoppers campaign. Preventing and tackling domestic abuse in Hillingdon borough is everybody's business. This campaign supports family, friends, neighbours and others in helping to break the cycle of violence and abuse; if you suspect it, if you see it, if you hear it, we encourage you to report it.
 
“Our priority continues to be the safety of victims and their families. Our Independent Domestic Violence Advisory service remains operational, and we continue to work with police and domestic abuse charities to ensure that victims and their children are fully supported."
 
"If you're a victim of domestic abuse, or know someone who is, and there's an emergency that's ongoing or life is in danger, call 999 now. 
For more information on the help available, please see www.hillingdon.gov.uk/abuse."
 

“The coronavirus pandemic has caused significant change for all, but this period of time creates additional worry and risk for those who are victims of domestic abuse. The stay-at-home measures and restrictions leave victims and potential victims at risk of being isolated, with a lack of opportunity to seek support or implement safety measures.
 
“The police are working with other agencies and charities to support victims and we will continue to ensure that we respond to domestic abuse incidents quickly and effectively. 

"However, we would also urge anyone who has concerns about a friend, family member or neighbour, that they report this to police and we can take steps to help and support. There is a wealth of information from organisations, for example, the charity Crimestoppers – where you can report concerns anonymously.”