A NEW campaign has been launched to support victims of domestic abuse suffering in silence.

National charity Crimestoppers, working in partnership with Police & Crime Commissioner for Cumbria Peter McCall, have launched a new campaign to encourage family, friends, neighbours or work colleagues who know or suspect a victim of domestic abuse is suffering in silence, to contact the charity anonymously. In the last six months, Crimestoppers have seen a 42 per cent increase in anonymous reports about domestic abuse from the public in Cumbria. In addition, an average of 17 domestic abuse reports are given to the county’s police force every day and the charities and organisations who provide vital support from victims have also seen a significant rise in demand for their services. The campaign highlights the different type of abuse a victim may be subjected to and how to spot the signs. It also provides the public with a quick and easy link from the social media posts taking them directly to our easy-to-use anonymous online form. Peter McCall, Police and Crime Commissioner for Cumbria, said: “Many of us believe that domestic abuse does not take place in Cumbria, but unfortunately it does. During the Covid-19 lockdowns we have seen a spike in domestic abuse across the county and I want to remind everyone that you do not have to suffer in silence and that you do not have to stay with your abuser during a lockdown."

To report domestic abuse 100 per cent anonymously, visit Crimestoppers-uk.org or call 0800 555 111.