Crime: Use phoneline to call time on domestic abuse

The crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers is appealing to the public to give information they may have about domestic abuse of a loved one, colleague, friend or neighbour.

In the UK two women are killed every week by a current or former male partner and nationally the police receive a domestic abuse call every 60 seconds.

Changes in the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004 provide victims with additional opportunities for protection.

This important piece of legislation also allows third party information to play a more prominent role in building a prosecution case around domestic abuse.

This has meant that Crimestoppers can now play a more active role in asking for information from third parties.

This information not only plays an important role in getting offenders prosecuted, but will also ensure early intervention and support mechanisms are put in place for victims.

Crimestoppers will take anonymous information on domestic abuse from those calling 0800 555 111 or from those using the online giving information form on its website .

Ann Scott of Crimestoppers, says: “We want to know if you have any information on someone you know who is suffering from domestic abuse or someone you know who is committing it.

“There is nothing to fear by contacting Crimestoppers. We do not ask for your name or any personal details, we do not trace your call or IP address, and we do not record your call.

“Those giving information will not have to give a statement to the police or go to court. In our 23 years we have never identified anybody.”

Tony Lloyd, chair of Bedfordshire Crimestoppers, added: “Domestic abuse is one of the most harrowing crimes; for someone to be physically and mentally abused by someone they love and trust is hard for most people to imagine.

“On average a woman is assaulted 35 times before she calls the police. When she does it can often be one word against another. Your information could help build up a more accurate picture for police. Many women do not come forward and your information could help save their life.”

Crimestoppers will be launching their campaign in conjunction with the national White Ribbon Weeks, which starts on November 25. It will involve hard hitting radio adverts, washroom mirror-sticker adverts in local venues and posters, flyers and cards for local domestic abuse agencies to distribute.The campaign has been generously funded by Bedfordshire Police who want to provide the community with an alternative and safe option for giving information about domestic abuse.

Although this campaign focuses on female victims, domestic abuse cuts across all genders, ages, religions, nationalities, races and sexualities. Crimestoppers will take information on any domestic abuse situations. It is not a replacement for calling the police on 999 when incidents are in progress, but is a way to give information about domestic abuse.