Campaign will tackle domesticviolence issue

It was launched on White Ribbon Day, which took place on Monday.

White Ribbon is an international organisation working to involve men in opposing violence and abuse against women.

Currently more than 60 reports of domestic abuse are reported to Sussex Police each day. The true picture will be much higher as often the abuse goes on ‘behind closed doors’ and the reasons for not reporting are often complicated.

Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner, Katy Bourne, who is leading the campaign, said: “It is very important that partners work together to identify best practice as this will ultimately deliver a better service to victims and encourage reporting of this largely hidden crime.

“I am particularly delighted that this year’s domestic abuse campaign has involvement from partners across Sussex - all working together to encourage earlier reporting of this appalling crime.

“I am pleased that my role in driving Sussex Police’s response to dealing with victims of domestic abuse during my first year in office, resulted in the Force gaining White Ribbon status - the first police force in England and Wales to achieve this award. However, achieving White Ribbon status is just the start.

“I want the crime of domestic abuse to become socially unacceptable and one that the wider public will feel more able to talk about. I believe there is still some way to go until we have reached this stage.

“I was elected Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner on a manifesto pledge to tackle domestic abuse and this will remain one of my key priorities throughout my term in office.”

Sussex Police was the first police force in England to be awarded White Ribbon status in recognition of the work being done to tackle domestic abuse .

Sussex Chief Constable Martin Richards said: “Abuse is something you do not have to put up with. This is a social problem that affects a variety of people but there is a lot of help available, not only from Sussex Police.”

For advice and support visit www.sussex.police.uk or call 101 or 01273 470101.