'You are not alone' message to Sunderland domestic violence victims

Sunderland City Council, Wearside Women in Need and Northumbria Police have come together to issue a list of useful contact details and to warn perpetrators hey will be pursued.

Becky Rogerson, director of Wearside Women in Need, said: “Our services are open and ready to take your call. We can provide a place of safety, discuss your options and choices and offer confidential advice and support.

“There’s never been a more critical time for us to all to pull together and look after one-another.

“We call on all our community ambassadors, supporters, and previous service users to spread the word and make that ‘stay safe’ call."

Councillor Michael Mordey, chair of the Safer Sunderland Partnership and deputy leader of Sunderland City Council, added: "We know that home isn’t a safe place for everyone. We also recognise that during these restrictions,

being isolated with an abuser must be terrifying, so we want to send a very clear message to you that you're not alone and there is help and support available."

Northumbria Police’s Detective Superintendent Deborah Alderson, of the safeguarding department, said: “If your home is not a safe environment then we urge you to seek support, to contact police.

“We will do everything we can do to support you which can include finding safe accommodation for you and your children or removing abusers from homes."

The council is urging anyone needing help to contact:• Wearside Women in Need’s 24/7 helpline on 0800 066 5555;• The National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 200 247;• The Police on 999 if you are in immediate danger. Silent calls will work if you are not safe to speak by dialling 999 and press 5 5;• The Police on 101 if you need help and support or are worried about a friend or loved one;• The Women’s Aid’s Live Chat via www.chat.womensaid.org.uk;• The Respect helpline 0808 802 4040 if you are worried about your own behaviour;• The Men’s Advice Line - a confidential helpline for male victims of domestic abuse and those supporting them 0808 8010327 (www.mensadviceline.org.uk).

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