East Suffolk: Local people encouraged to speak up anonymously about domestic abuse

Perpetrators also urged to seek professional help

Our charity, working with East Suffolk Council Community Safety Partnership (CSP), is appealing to local people who are aware of or suspect domestic abuse is happening, to report it 100% anonymously. 

As a charity that has helped millions of people over the years, we are asking those with concerns to pass on what they know whilst staying 100% anonymous. Always. Crimestoppers is independent of the police. Last year, we passed on over 6,000 pieces of information given anonymously about suspected domestic abuse cases.

Domestic abuse can be physical, psychological, emotional, sexual or financial. It affects one in four women and one in six men during their lifetime. It’s estimated that a typical victim endures up to 35 assaults before speaking up, and in some cases, it can result in death. 

Often neighbours, colleagues, friends and family have suspicions, but are reluctant to get involved because of embarrassment, split loyalties or fear of revenge.

GIVE INFORMATION ANONYMOUSLY

The campaign also urges anyone who is worried about their abusive behaviour to get help and support that is available to them via a number of agencies and a confidential helpline service. The Respect Phoneline, 0808 802 4040, is a confidential helpline for men and women who are harming their partners and families. The helpline also takes calls from partners or ex-partners, friends and relatives who have concerns about a perpetrator.

“It is terrible to think that this country sees two women killed by a former or current partner every single week. That is totally unacceptable. To tackle this serious and often hidden crime, which can be happening to someone you know, we all need to look out for each other. 

“You don’t have to wait for an emergency to find help or tell someone what you know about domestic abuse. It’s important to tell someone and remember, if you’re a victim, that you’re not alone and that there is help and support out there for you – please see our website.

“With this campaign, we are reaching out to those with suspicions. We often hear from people that they were reluctant to flag up their worries or unsure what to do. This is where Crimestoppers, as a charity, can help. You can contact us 100% anonymously by visiting  our website and filling in our anonymous online form. Alternatively, call our UK Contact Centre which is open 24/7, on freephone 0800 555 111. We will take your information and pass it on for you. No one will ever know you called.” 
Phil Breckon, Crimestoppers Eastern Regional Manager

 “This campaign aims to educate communities about the prevalence of abuse, encourage people to take action to promote social change and alert survivors to the options and resources that are available to them.”
Community Safety Partnership Chair, Councillor Michael Ninnmey 

Should you suspect or know about domestic abuse and prefer to stay anonymous, please contact our charity by calling freephone 0800 555 111 or complete a safe and secure anonymous online form.

In an emergency, or if you fear someone’s life is in danger, call 999 immediately. 

Support information for those experiencing domestic abuse in East Suffolk can be found on the Coastal Action Against Abuse website www.c-aaa.uk and the Waveney Domestic Violence & Abuse Forum website www.waveneydvforum.org.uk