Throughout September, the Staffordshire Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime Commissioner’s Office, Staffordshire Police, and NHS Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent will be highlighting how domestic abuse can include coercive control, threats, humiliation, intimidation, financial control and other abuse.
The campaign shines a light on all types of abuse and on victims who may find it difficult to seek help and report their abuse to the Police, as well as reminding people of the support available to them regardless of their gender, age, disability, sexuality, or ethnicity.
The multi-agency campaign also raises awareness of the personal safety app, Kulpa, which allows all victims to record and securely upload evidential material including photos, videos, messages and other digital material directly with Police.
Superintendent Dave Kelsall, head of adult public protection and lead for domestic abuse at Staffordshire Police, said: “Anyone can experience domestic abuse. Whilst we know most victims of domestic abuse are women; we also recognise that many men suffer in silence and may feel unable to come forward to report the abuse. We want everyone to know that if you are experiencing abuse, we will listen, we will take all reports seriously, and we will help you access the support you need. Anything you share with us will remain confidential, and your anonymity will always be protected.
“No one should ever feel they have to live with abusive behaviour of any kind. If you’re struggling, please reach out. You are not alone, and help is available.”
New Era Domestic Abuse Service provides support for all those affected by domestic abuse including adults, children and families. Free confidential support is available for victims 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone or live webchat. The service has recently received the Leading Lights Accreditation for excellence in their delivery of domestic abuse support.
New Era recently supported a male victim of domestic abuse who had been cut off from his family, experienced frequent abuse and found it difficult to leave the relationship.
A Male Victim Specialist within New Era ensured they could receive specialist support and increased their understanding of domestic abuse. They even supported them through an employment disciplinary process due to time taken off work because of their physical injury.
Following an investigation by Staffordshire Police, the suspect pleaded guilty and was given a two-year restraining order. The victim told New Era that he feels safer, less isolated and able to live without fear now the offender is out of his life.
Staffordshire Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime Commissioner, Ben Adams said: “Domestic abuse takes many forms including psychological, emotional, physical, financial, sexual, and verbal abuse. It is never acceptable and never the victim’s fault.
“It is vital that all victims can access the effective, targeted support they need, when they need it. New Era has specialist advisors for all victims including males, LGBTQ+, Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic and Refugee (BAMER) communities, older victims and those with a disability.”
Simon Whitehouse, Chief Executive Officer from NHS Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent said: “Domestic abuse is a serious issue, and it has lasting impacts on people’s physical and mental health, families, and communities. The NHS across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent are fully committed to working alongside our partners to prevent harm, support survivors and ensure that anyone affected knows they are not alone. This campaign sends a clear message that support is available and that tackling domestic abuse is everyone’s responsibility.”
To access 24/7 victim support, call New Era on 0330 303 3778 or visit: www.new-era.uk.
Other domestic abuse support across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent:
Glow (North Staffordshire)
- Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm helpline for victims – 0330 094 5559
- https://findtheglow.org.uk/
Pathway (Lichfield & Tamworth)
- 24/7 helpline for victims – 01543 676 800
- https://www.pathway-project.co.uk/
Staffordshire Women’s Aid (Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent)
- 24/7 helpline for victims – 0300 330 5959
- https://staffordshirewomensaid.org/
ENDS
Notes to editor
The campaign has been developed by Staffordshire Police, Staffordshire Commissioner’s Office, and NHS Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
New Era Domestic Abuse Service is funded by Staffordshire Commissioner’s Officer, Staffordshire County Council and Stoke-on-Trent City Council, and is operated by Victim Support.