Domestic violence across Greater Manchester is being tackled with a new campaign reminding people that Valentine’s Day is not a day of love for everyone.
The campaign, promoted by Oldham Council, hopes to raise awareness of the support available to persons experiencing or witnessing domestic violence.
And unfortunately, while many people are receiving chocolate and flowers, some will be suffering at the hands of their partner this Valentine’s Day.
The campaign comes after help was offered to 338 victims of domestic violence in Oldham during 2013, which included psychological, physical, sexual, financial and emotional abuse.
Councillor Jean Stretton said: “Tackling domestic violence and abuse is very important. It can have a devastating effect on the victim but also impacts on the whole family.
“Children and young people who witness it can be emotionally and psychologically scarred for life.”
A domestic violence survivor ‘Catherine’ (name changed to protect her identity) is supporting Oldham’s campaign to raise awareness of the support available to persons experiencing or witnessing domestic violence.
‘Catherine’s story’ is a video which talks about her journey, and includes the violent and abusive behaviour she endured for 10 years, the barriers she faced, the support she received and ultimately the positive outcome she achieved through her own courage.
Councillor Jean Stretton explained: “Through our work we will continue to help victims to either leave violent relationships, live more safely within relationships or support the prosecution of offenders.”
The council also provide specialist advice and support for those experiencing or are at risk of honour based violence, such as forced marriage and female genital mutilation.
And additionally, The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme is available which is a formal mechanism for you to make enquires about your partner or the partner of a relative or friend if you are worried that the partner may have been abusive in the past.
If you want to make an application under the scheme, please contact GMP. You can visit a police station, speak to a member of the police on the street or telephone 101.
If you believe there is an immediate risk of harm, or it is an emergency, you should always call 999.
To watch Catherine’s story log onto http://www.oldham.gov.uk/dv
To speak to one of our Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVA’s) in confidence, please telephone 0161 770 1573. Greater Manchester Domestic Violence Helpline 0161 636 7525; 24 hour National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000247; The Men’s Advice Line on 0808 8010327.
Image courtesy of Katie Tegtmeyer, with thanks.
