New website help for those concerned about Domestic Abuse

This week is Domestic Abuse Awareness Week and tomorrow, Thursday 25 November, is White Ribbon Day - the day for elimination of violence against women. To mark it, a new website will be launched for Hertfordshire residents concerned about domestic abuse.

The site www.hertssunflower.org will offer support and advice for victims, concerned families and friends, as well as those who have committed domestic and want to change their pattern of behaviour. Professionals will also be able to use the site and the overriding message to all its users will be ‘help is at hand.’

The site has been developed by the County Community Safety Unit, a joint police and County Council team, and is based on a successful domestic abuse support site from authorities in Warwickshire. An online reporting form is also planned for the new year – the site will be continually refreshed with new content and will be refined in line with user feedback.

Detective Superintendent Jon Chapman from the County Community Safety Unit said: “If you are suffering from abuse, are concerned about your home life or are worried about a friend or family member, why not use this week as the time to take action?”

“There is so much support available to you. Your safety is our utmost priority and you have a number of options available, including the choice to contact the police. I’d urge you to take control towards a better and safer future for you and your family.

“Our new website is a ‘one-stop-shop’ for those looking for more information and advice on abuse. Whether you are suffering from domestic abuse, a young person, concerned friends, family and colleagues, professionals, or an abuser who wants to change, this new site aims to help give you the information you need.”

“Nobody should have to live with any form of domestic abuse,” commented Hertfordshire County Council Executive Member for Community Safety Keith Emsall. “This week provides an excellent opportunity to raise awareness of this issue and help people to gain the support and advice they need.”

If you are concerned about Domestic Abuse, please contact the Hertfordshire Domestic Abuse Helpline on 08 088 088 088. It's free to call and is available 10am-10pm Monday to Friday.

Photo from Janine’s photostream on flickr.