LANCASHIRE Police are urging victims of domestic abuse not to suffer in silence this Christmas.
The force has launched a Christmas campaign to tackle domestic abuse over the festive season, reinforcing the message it is a crime and urging victims to contact police.
Over the past 12 months, there have been over 28,000 incidents of domestic abuse reported to the police and in nearly three out of four cases the offender is charged and brought to justice.
This Christmas officers will be conducting visits to victims subjected to domestic violence last year alongside independent domestic abuse representatives. Offenders who carried out domestic abuse during the last festive period will also be visited and warned.
Head of Lancashire Constabulary’s Public Protection Unit Det. Supt Ian Critchley said: “There is nothing more inexcusable than abuse carried out behind closed doors by so called ‘loved ones’.
“Sadly, every year over Christmas the number of domestic abuse incidents reported to us increases.
“On average, a woman is assaulted 35 times before she makes her first call for help and we are working hard to bring this figure down. Victims of domestic abuse and their children have the right to live safety in their own home. They should be reassured the abuse is not their fault and they are not alone.
“I would also like to send out a message to perpetrators that we will do all we can to arrest them and bring them before the courts.
“Domestic abuse can devastate families and relationships and the police can offer protection and help to find safe accommodation.
“If you are ever in danger, call 999 and the police will investigate and protect you from harm.”