23 November 2016 | Comments
Domestic violence has become a top priority around the world in recent years because of the number of people killed or seriously injured by their partners, husbands or wives. Of course, these relationships are between people who should love and respect one another.
As a result, Police staff on St Helena have received many hours of training to recognise the signs of people who are suffering violence in their own homes. Also we aim to offer a degree of empathy to those in a violent relationship – although no one can really understand until they themselves have been faced with that situation.
Detective Constable Louise Scott said:
“We cannot force people to come forward and speak to us, but we are here to help. All Police Officers join up with the old fashioned notion that we can do something good for those around us and in our community.
“No one wants to see anyone suffering, especially in their own homes where people should feel safest.”
This does not have to be the case – there is a way through these situations. Whilst the Police are there to deal with the actual crime, they also work with Safeguarding and other agencies that can help advise and give strength to those who need it.
Louise concluded:
“We will listen to anyone who wishes to report domestic violence. If you are that person suffering in silence, then please call. If you are someone that knows another person is suffering but struggling to come forward then please do let us know.
“The more people speak to us the more we can do. If we stand as one against perpetrators of violence we can win the battle. But there is a long way to go. Sometimes there is a level of acceptance that this is just something that happens – but let’s work together to change this perception and support The White Ribbon Campaign.”
SHG
23 November 2016
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