Every week, we hear from the emergency services as they update us on a busy month of service in Cumbria.

It is pivotal that all Cumbrians feel that their concerns are being addressed within the emergency services and, through this column, we are able to offer the public that vital reassurance as well as gauge the public mood on a plethora of issues in this difficult time for so many!

This week, Cumbria Police update us on the steps they are taking to ensure that a very worrying problem in our region is dealt with compassionately and effectively.

On average, police deal with at least 17 incidents of domestic abuse, every day, across the county. Almost half of these reports are from people who have experienced violence before.

Due to many factors, cases of domestic abuse commonly increase in the winter months. The Constabulary ran an awareness campaign throughout last month to encourage victims of abuse to report what is happening to police.

The campaign may have concluded but officers are continuing to appeal to people to continue reporting information so more victims can be safeguarded.

To anyone suffering or affected by domestic abuse, the Constabulary’s message is clear: Don’t suffer in silence. We are here to help. Support is available.

If you report an incident of abuse to us, we can assure you that it will be investigated thoroughly and sensitively, and we can help you get the support that you need.

Getting the right support in place is incredibly important, as it can help empower someone to take their next positive step forward.

There is a wealth of support services available in Cumbria; from counselling to rehoming support. There are also many additional services available nationally.

Police can help those impacted by abuse access these support services and will support them through any court process.

Support is also available for if you recognise that your behaviour towards a partner or family member is inappropriate. It is important to understand why this may be happening, so you can get the help you need. This could be financial advice, support around substance or alcohol misuse or, emotional health and wellbeing.

You can access any support services regardless of if you have reported a crime to the police.

Support is available in a variety of different ways that can be accessed as follows:

to access support services independently, contact Victim Support 24/7 on 0808 1689 111 or visit the Cumbria Together website www.cumbriatogether.com.