Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner David Allen is urging people experiencing domestic and sexual abuse to reach out for help over Christmas.
Victim Support Cumbria can offer tailored support around any crime type that someone has experienced and can signpost to other services.
They also have specialised roles to help with sexual and domestic abuse and stalking.
They can be contacted 24/7 on 08 08 16 89 111 and more information can be found at www.victimsupport.org.uk/cumbria.
Anyone needing support does not have to report the crime to the police to get help from Victim Support.
To provide immediate support, Mr Allen has funded a pilot that sees Independent Domestic Violence Advisors from Victim Support sit in police call centres Thursdays to Sundays, 4pm until midnight, to offer immediate support to anyone in need and identify callers in crisis.
Mr Allen said: “For some people, Christmas can be the most dreaded part of the year. It can bring an increased level of isolation and vulnerability.
“This is a time of year when the majority of businesses, shops and workplaces are closed and victims of domestic abuse can feel isolated, vulnerable and exposed to the potential of further abuse with no way to escape.
“I would always encourage anyone experiencing any form of abuse to report it to the Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.
“However, I know that this isn’t an option for everyone which is why I commission Victim Support in Cumbria. You do not have to report matters to the police if you are unable or unwilling to do so, Victim Support can and will provide someone for you to speak to who will listen and help.
“No one should feel that they are alone and have to suffer in silence so please reach out. Help is out there, and support services can be accessed 24/7, over Christmas and the new year period.
“Even if right now you only have questions, I would urge you to make contact. Getting the right support can empower someone to take their next positive step forward.”
Senior operations manager for Victim Support Cumbria, Sarah Place, said: “We’re here for you this Christmas – 24/7 support is available.
“Crime doesn’t stop at Christmas, and neither do we. If you’ve been affected by domestic and/or sexual abuse, or any crime or a traumatic event, you’re not alone.
“Victim Support is here for you every day, including over the festive season.”
Services are free, confidential, and available 24/7:
- Call the local service line on 0300 30 30 157 during office hours
- Call the national support line on 08 08 16 89 111 open 7 days a week (24/7 including bank holidays)
- Chat with Victim Support online: https://www.victimsupport.org.uk/help-and-support/get-help/support-near-you/live-chat/
Sarah added: “Whether you want to talk to someone or prefer to use live chat, our trained supporters will listen with compassion and provide the help you need.
“Take the first step towards support today – we’re here whenever you need us.
“Visit My Support Space to sign up for free confidential account with information about all of our Victim Support services and self-help resources available to you.”
My Support Space is available at https://www.mysupportspace.org.uk/
