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The Domestic Abuse Awareness week starts today and runs until Friday 24 October. It started with a launch of balloons by Cllr Caroline Spencer, outside the Elmsleigh Centre in Staines. 159 balloons were launched representing one for each client refered to the North Surrey Domestic Abuse Outreach Service last year. Plus five gold balloons representing the five year anniversary of the Outreach Service.
The Council works closely with partners including the North Surrey Outreach Service to combat this type of abuse and the harmful effect it has on individuals and families. The Service provides support for people referred by agencies in the Borough and the Safer Stronger Partnership provides funds for the “Sanctuary” scheme which helps victims remain in their own homes.
Domestic abuse is actual or threatened physical, emotional, psychological or sexual abuse and it involves the use of power and control by one person over another. It occurs regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, class, sexuality, age, religion and affects 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men at some point during their life. Two women are murdered every week in England and Wales alone. Over 150 Spelthorne residents were referred to the Outreach Service last year.
Councillor Frank Ayres, Portfolio Holder for Community Safety said: “Domestic Abuse is a serious crime and it is increasing each year, but so are the support services available. I hope that the campaign will highlight the services available and make everyone aware of the devastating effects that domestic abuse can have”.
For further information please ring Tim Kita on 01784 446243.
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