An annual week offering support, advice and helping to highlight the issue of domestic abuse is returning
Across North Tyneside, Newcastle and Northumberland last year, there were 18,856 reported incidents of domestic abuse and over half of these involved or affected children.
To help encourage victims – men or women – to report problems they are experiencing, the three North of Tyne councils are holding the awareness-raising week from November 25 to December 1.
This is in support of the international day for the elimination of violence and abuse against women and girls on November 25.
Jacqui Old, Director for Children’s and Adult’s Servies at North Tyneside Council, said: “Domestic abuse can affect anyone and this annual event allows us to highlight the issues around it and hopefully encourage more sufferers to report it and seek help.
“We also have a fantastic range of support in North Tyneside that anyone can access if they feel they need to.”
The week concludes with the annual ‘DIVA’ Walk – which stands for ‘Don’t Ignore Violence and Abuse’.
Cath McEvoy-Call, Executive Director of Adults and Children's Services at Northumberland County Council, said: “As we near the Christmas period, we know this is a time for increased tension for families - both emotionally and financially - and this can increase the risk to those living in an abusive relationship.
“There is a wide range of support available right across Northumberland and local support services are encouraging people who suffer abuse, their family and friends to seek advice and support.
“The Domestic Abuse Support Service in Northumberland is a fully integrated service, available 24 hours a day. They provide confidential support and advice for women and men who are at risk of domestic abuse. You can call them on 01670 820199”.
Ewen Weir, Director of People at Newcastle City Council said: “If by coming together to raise awareness encourages just one person to find the courage to speak out about their suffering then it will have been worth it.
“Anybody can be a victim of domestic abuse regardless of who they are and their circumstances, and it’s vital they know they don’t have to suffer in silence.
“Domestic abuse has a horrendous impact on people’s lives and I would encourage everybody to do what they can to spread the message and help as many victims as possible find the support available to them.”
Setting off on Sunday 1 December at 11am from Tynemouth Priory, walkers will cover around 3.5 miles before finishing at Waves on The Links at Whitley Bay at approximately 12pm.
This brings together those who have left unhealthy relationships and those who have experienced, or are still suffering from, abuse. Support organisations are also taking part and members of the general public are welcome to join in too.
North Tyneside, Newcastle and Northumberland councils and their partners offer a wide range of practical and emotional help to those who may be experiencing domestic abuse, from financial advice and help to find safe accommodation, to counselling and support groups.
ENDS