Domestic Abuse
Peace day – 21 September
Peace Day takes place on Friday 21 September 2012. The aim of this initiative is to make the 21 September a day of non-violence across the globe.
Although the campaign concentrates on encouraging ceasefires in war zones, the principle is extended to all forms of violence, including domestic violence, that blights the life of men, women and children in our own country. The Constabulary has therefore signed up to the 'Reducing Domestic Violence Coalition'.
As the campaign declares: “Peace Day 2012 is an opportunity to unite on a scale never seen before and bring the issue of domestic violence to the fore. Together we can decrease the level of violence, raise awareness and generate a vast array of activity around this issue.”
Domestic Abuse Support Services
Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Support Service (GDASS) is a county-wide service designed to reduce the level of domestic abuse and improve the safety of victims and their families. By providing an outreach service in all districts, GDASS aims to reduce the number of high risk cases and cases where people are forced to flee.
The support line for those in need is 0845 602 9035
What is Domestic Abuse?
'Any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional) between adults who are or have been intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality.' (Home Office)
What Can I Do?
If you, or someone you know, is affected by domestic abuse there are a number of things you can do. You can:
Call the police (999 in an emergency or 101 for a non-emergency situation).
- Contact GDASS on 0845 602 9035for practical local support.
- GDASS can help you and your children stay safe in your own home.
- GDASS can help you access specialist legal advice.
- GDASS can help you with other agencies (e.g. Benefits and Housing).
- If you cannot stay at home, GDASS can help you find a Place of Safety.
- GDASS can help you and your children move on.
- Contact a help line:
- National Domestic Violence Helpline (0808 2000 247).
- National Centre for Domestic Abuse (0844 8044 999).
- Men's Advice Line (0808 801 0327).
Gloucestershire Constabulary's policy to tackle Domestic Abuse
The policy has four principal aims:
- To protect the lives of both adults and children who are at risk as a result of domestic abuse
- To investigate all reports of domestic abuse;
- To facilitate effective action against offenders so that they can be held accountable through the criminal justice system;
- To adopt a proactive multi-agency approach in preventing and reducing domestic abuse.
This policy aims to give a clear statement of commitment, which every officer of the Gloucestershire Constabulary must have to take firm action against those that commit domestic abuse and the provision of caring support for those who suffer it.
- 
-