The charity Crimestoppers is back in Hillingdon continuing work with Hillingdon Council to appeal for anonymous information from members of the community who are aware of domestic abuse happening to friends, family, work colleagues or neighbours.
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.
As an independent charity who has helped millions of people over the years, Crimestoppers is asking those with concerns in Hillingdon borough to pass on what they know whilst staying 100% anonymous. Always.
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.
Alexa Loukas, London Regional Manager at the charity Crimestoppers, said: “During lockdown we saw reports of domestic abuse increase dramatically across London. As we return and adjust to different ways of living and working, this has put pressure on people’s lives and families – many people are still working from home, and this is increasing the risk of people suffering from domestic abuse.
“It’s horrendous that, even in normal times, this country sees two women killed by a former or current partner every single week. That is totally unacceptable, but to tackle this serious crime, 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.
“We are reaching out to bystanders and 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 – we will take your information and pass it on for you. No one will ever know you called. Our charity’s UK Contact Centre is open 24/7 on freephone 0800 555 111 or visit our website crimestoppers-uk.org and fill in our simple and secure anonymous online form.”
Perry Scott, Corporate Director of Place at Hillingdon Council, said: “Hillingdon Council strongly supports this Crimestoppers campaign to prevent and end the devastating effects that domestic abuse inflicts on people’s lives.
“I am pleased to see that the campaign will be appealing to witnesses to safely come forward and anonymously report any suspicions of domestic abuse in their community. I’m also urging those who are worried about their violent and abusive behaviour to seek professional help and confront the causes for this. “Hillingdon Council has a zero-tolerance approach to domestic abuse in all its forms. We are committed to preventing and eradicating all forms of violence and abuse and we are working towards Hillingdon being a safer space for everyone to live, work and visit.”
