Domestic abuse campaign launched

Charity Sussex Crimestoppers have joined forces with Sussex Police, West Sussex County Council (WSCC) and Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club in a bid to increase anonymous third party information relating to incidents of domestic abuse across the county.

The campaign will consist of radio appeals and promotional story-boards highlighting anonymous third party reporting if they suspect abuse is occurring.

Kathy Burke, Sussex Crimestoppers’ chair, said: “On Valentine’s Day we normally think about our loved ones.

“This year we are asking you to think about those people, men and women, who are physically and mentally abused by someone they love and trust, something which is hard for most people to imagine. We also need to consider the impact of domestic abuse on the children living within these families.

“Domestic abuse is one of the most harrowing crimes and these perpetrators must be brought to justice.

“If you know of anyone that is being abused or you know who the perpetrator of the abuse is, please call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or give information on line at www.crimestoppers-uk.org, to pass on any information you may have.”

Trish Harrison, domestic and sexual violence manager at WSCC, added: “People who experience domestic abuse tell us they want the public to feel empowered to take action on their behalf and report incidents of domestic abuse.

“Now through Crimestoppers, the public will have the option of doing this anonymously.”