North Tyneside’s annual Domestic Abuse Awareness Week returns this month – helping to make a stand against domestic abuse and encouraging people to report it.
Across North Tyneside and Northumberland last year, there were 9,509 reported incidents of domestic abuse and around half of these involved and affected children.
To highlight the issue and encourage victims – men or women – to report problems they are experiencing, North Tyneside Council, in partnership with Northumberland County Council, is holding the annual North Tyneside Domestic Abuse Awareness Week, from 20-26 November.
This is in support of the international day for the elimination of violence and abuse against women and girls (25 November).
Around one in four women and one in six men are victims of domestic abuse at some point in their lives, but fewer than half report it.
Domestic Abuse Awareness Week ends with the annual ‘DIVA’ walk (‘Don’t Ignore Violence and Abuse’). Setting off on Sunday 26 November at 11am from Tynemouth Priory, walkers will cover around 3.5 miles before finishing at Waves on The Links at Whitley Bay at approximately 12pm.
Cllr Gary Bell, cabinet member for Adult Social Care at North Tyneside Council, said: “Domestic abuse can affect anyone, regardless of your age or gender, so it’s important that we raise awareness of the issue and encourage sufferers to seek help.
“We have such a wide array of support in North Tyneside, and there will always be someone available to speak to you and support you, whatever your circumstances.”
Councillor Wayne Daley, Deputy Leader and cabinet member for Safeguarding at Northumberland County Council, said: “We are nearing the Christmas period, which is a time for increased pressure and tension for families – both emotionally and financially – and this can sometimes create added pressure for those living in abusive relationships.
“A wide range of support is available across Northumberland and our partnership agencies and local support services are encouraging people who suffer abuse, their family and friends to seek advice and support.”
North Tyneside Council and its partners offer a wide range of practical and emotional help to those who may be experiencing domestic abuse, from financial advice and help to find safe accommodation, to counselling and support groups. More information is available atwww.northtyneside.gov.uk.