Police advise victims of domestic abuse to seek help

Detective Inspector Tara Nicholl explains: "Domestic Abuse can happen on any day of the year however holiday periods can be particularly difficult for those who live or are in contact with an abusive partner or family member.

"We know that a large number of domestic incidents go unreported right across Northern Ireland and part of our job is to let people know that they do not have to endure abuse in silence. It is vitally important that victims and their families are aware of the range of support service available through our Domestic Abuse Team.

"Whenever an incident of domestic abuse is reported to us it is investigated and where criminal offences have been committed, officers will take positive action. It is not always necessary for the victim to make a statement.

"MARAC (Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference) focuses on high risk victims of domestic abuse and provides information sharing and joint risk identification and management to protect the most vulnerable victims and their families. There are also two Foyle Woman's Aid Criminal Justice Support Workers attached to the Domestic Abuse team who can offer advice to victims and their families and signpost them to other support services.

"We would encourage anyone who is suffering to contact us directly or through one of partner agencies. We are fully committed to dealing with domestic abuse and supporting victims and their families through the justice system process."

The Domestic Abuse Team can be contacted on 028 71 210 723. The G District unit covers Magherafelt, Foyle, Limavady and Strabane.