Police urge victims to come forward as domestic violence crime reports rise in Mid Ulster

One in four women has suffered from domestic violence or abuse

Between April 1 last year and March 31 this year a total of 810 such crimes were reported to police, an increase of just over three per cent on the previous year’s statistics.

A total of 1,476 domestic violence incidents, were also recorded in the area.

While police welcome the rise in the number reports as they believe it shows confidence in them is increasing, Detective Chief Superintendent George Clarke said they know such attacks are still going unreported.

With this in mind the PSNI is asking anyone who thinks they may be a victim of domestic violence to bear this in mind: “If you feel like you’re walking on eggshells that’s domestic abuse.”

“Very often people who are being abused feel isolated, vulnerable and frightened and don’t know where to turn,” said DCS Clarke.

“Through the campaign we are encouraging all victims regardless of age, race, gender or sexuality to come forward and report the matter to the police - It is our job to keep people safe.”

Domestic violence: ‘Speak out to stop it’

Dedicated domestic abuse officers across Northern Ireland try to ensure all domestic abuse crimes are investigated, as well as providing support and information to victims about police and legal proceedings. Domestic abuse is not dealt with solely by the PSNI, who work with the PCSP and other key stakeholders to highlight the issue of domestic abuse and explore together ways to make communities safer.

A 24-hour Domestic and Sexual Helpline is available to anyone who has concerns about domestic or sexual violence, now or in the past, on 0808 802 1414, or call the PSNI on 101 or 999.