Greater Manchester Police is calling on people across the region to help protect victims in abusive relationships by reporting domestic abuse happening to friends, relatives and members of their community.
Taking inspiration from the three wise monkeys, the see no evil – hear no evil – speak no evil campaign, featuring video, posters and leaflets has been designed to encourage those who see or have suspicions of abuse to and report what they see to police or other services.
It comes after recent domestic homicide reviews found that victims were more likely to report incidents of abuse to friends and relatives, rather than to police. People may also witness or suspect abuse within their jobs, as neighbours, or colleagues – and it’s these people that may be able to help GMP release a victim from the grip of an abusive relationship.
Detective Chief Inspector Nicky Porter from Greater Manchester Police’s Public Protection Division, said: “Domestic abuse is a terrible crime and can affect victims in ways that aren’t always visible. Very often they are left feeling isolated and alone and no one should have to endure this kind of suffering.
“We know of regular incidents of domestic abuse where family members or neighbours say they knew something was going on, but didn’t want to interfere.
“We also see cases where lives have been saved because a neighbour, upon hearing a disturbance, has contacted us about it.
“We want members of the public to know that from the moment the police receive a call, steps are taken to safeguard and protect potential victims. We have a whole range of options at our disposal to help us do this.
“It is important that the wider society understand their responsibilities to help us tackle this horrific crime and protect those who are at risk. You could potentially save a life.”
Greater Manchester Police take all reports made seriously and will act on any intelligence received. The police work hard with partners to support people make choices for themselves.
Not everyone wishes to get the police involved in their relationships and through a new Greater Manchester wide multi-agency approach known as STRIVE, victims, perpetrators, families and friends resolve issues that can potentially escalate and become worse over time. It lets family and friends know that there are options available to help you support your loved ones.
Figures show that one in four women will experience domestic abuse in their life and up to two are killed by partners each week in England and Wales.
Joanne Simpson, manager of the Women’s Domestic Abuse Helpline, said: “We welcome Greater Manchester Police’s campaign to encourage concerned loves ones and neighbours to report domestic abuse.
“We know that on average a victim of domestic abuse experiences 35 incidents before seeking help. Therefore, early intervention can help to protect people from experiencing further incidents. The impact of domestic abuse is sometimes experienced by the loved ones of victim/survivors who feel helpless. We are available at the helpline to guide concerned parties through options.”
Greater Manchester Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Jim Battle said: “This campaign is a call for each and every one of us to speak out against domestic abuse – a crime that has a devastating on victims and their families.
“You might think you’re getting involved in things that aren’t your business or you’re not sure how you can help, but many people suffer in silence for years. By being aware, looking out for your loved ones and neighbours, and reporting domestic abuse, you can help break that silence and save the life of a loved one and rescue their children from a lifetime of misery and violence.
“If you do have concerns about a loved one or neighbour please call the police or visit endthefear.co.uk for help and advice.”
For more information call the Women’s Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0161 636 7525 or go to www.endthefear.co.uk for information on how to stop abuse or report incidents to Greater Manchester Police on 101 where you can ask to be transferred to the specialist domestic abuse unit. In an emergency and where there is a threat to life – always dial 999.
