Rising number of domestic abuse cases in Lisburn

There were 930 domestic abuse incidents reported to police in the city between January and September last year - nearly 18 every week. That compares to 835 in 2008.

The new advertising campaign is designed to reinforce reporting of incidents and underline the message to those suffering from abuse that they can take steps to stop it.

Lisburn is one of a number of 'hotspot' areas across Northern Ireland including Belfast, Foyle, Craigavon, Newtownards and Down being targeted.

Lisburn Area Commander, Chief Inspector David Moore said: "Domestic Abuse is a crime that police take very seriously. Our research indicates that incidents of domestic abuse rise at holiday times.

"We believe that a large number of domestic incidents in Northern Ireland still go unreported and we want to reassure victims of this type of crime that there is support for them. Domestic abuse is a frightening crime, often isolating the victim.

"It is important to deliver the message that people should not have to endure abuse, that there is support for them and a means through the law to address the situation they are in.

"Earlier this week along the Northern Ireland Office, the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety and other partner agencies we launched the Multi Agency Risk Assessment Management Conference (MARAC) – this is for high risk victims of domestic abuse.

"It provides multi agency information sharing to protect those vulnerable persons and their families within our society. MARAC is an invaluable initiative which provides support and promotes partnership working with all agencies and that can only be advantageous for the reduction of harm caused by domestic abuse within our society".

The campaign also aims to publicise the 24 hour domestic abuse helpline, which saw an increase in the number of calls during the last advertising campaign. Callers said they had been prompted to phone the helpline as a result of the advertising campaign. The Domestic Abuse helpline phone number is 0800 917 1414.