Bedfordshire Police sends message to communities that there is no excuse for abuse

As it launches a multi-lingual message to victims via social media, Bedfordshire Police is anticipating a rise in reports of domestic abuse, due to the stay home restrictions in place to limit the spread of coronavirus.

At a time of potentially greater risk for victims, with restrictions on movement in place, social distancing and isolation may amplify coercive and controlling behaviour or stricter routines.

The force is reassuring victims across the county, in the many different communities, that support is still available, despite the pandemic, and together with its partner agencies, will continue to share information on how to make a report and to find help.

Detective Chief Inspector Jackie Dadd, head of the force’s Emerald team, dedicated to the investigation of domestic abuse, said: “Whatever form domestic abuse takes; be it physical, sexual, emotional, psychological or financial, the investigation of domestic abuse is a high priority for the force, and never more so than at this time.

“Since the UK lockdown measures, we have not seen the rise in reports in Bedfordshire, as has been experienced globally, but we expect it is coming. Sadly, figures show that those living with domestic abuse do not always report incidents immediately and now, with fewer opportunities to get away from an abuser to find help, that delay could be lengthy.

“Although we are all facing this extraordinary situation, our existing processes and services are still working to investigate, and support those at risk from these high harm crimes, and we wish to give victims the confidence and the platform to speak out. Especially those in some of our under-reported and harder to reach communities.

“We continue to work with our partners across the county, in the local authorities, charities and help groups, to ensure that support is readily accessible and available to those that need it.”

A series of video messages, recorded by community members in the many different languages spoken across Bedfordshire, is available on YouTube and will be shared on social media.

The campaign comes after Bedfordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Kathryn Holloway, announced a £60,000 fund to provide emergency accommodation for those escaping Domestic Abuse in their homes during the current Covid-19 emergency.

If you have concerns about a person’s behaviour towards another, or you fear for someone’s safety call 101, always call 999 in an emergency. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.