Gathering forces to fight violence

MODEL RELEASED. Domestic violence. Silhouette of a woman protecting herself from a blow from her partner by holding her arms in front of her face. ENGPPP00120130204141649

On Sunday as part of International Women’s Day officers handed out information in Bedford about help and support available and on Monday the force played host to a meeting of the new Domestic Abuse Scrutiny panel.

The aim is to encourage more people living with domestic abuse to seek help.

Chief Constable Colette Paul said the force is pulling out all the stops to enhance the service the force gives to victims of domestic abuse. She said: “Nationally it is an under-reported crime and the more we can do to encourage victims to come forward and get the protection they need, the better.

“It could, quite literally, save a life.”

“The emphasis in Bedfordshire is all about providing ‘wrap-around care’ to ensure victims have everything they need at every stage of the process. That includes keeping individuals informed,” Colette Paul added.

National police lead Assistant Chief Constable Louisa Rolfe said: “Improving our response to domestic abuse is a priority for the police.

“The service victims of domestic abuse receive has greatly improved due to police investment in specialist officers, training call handlers to better assess risks and building working partnerships at local and national level with charities representing and supporting victims.”

Anyone who is a victim of domestic abuse can seek help by calling 101 in confidence.