A recent report shows that victims of domestic violence are now better supported and better protected by the Police.
The total reported claims has increased dramatically. In March 2015, the total number of reported domestic abuse crimes was 353,063. From March 2015 to June 2016 the total number reported increased to 434,095. This is an increase of 23%.
From the 12 months to 30th June 2016, domestic abuse related crime made up 11% of all recorded crime.
In the least three years incidents of domestic abuse reported to the police has increased by over 60%.
Unfortunately, this increase shows just how prevalent domestic abuse is in our society today. On the other hand, the increase does show that more and more victims have the courage to come forward, speak out and seek the help and protection that they need.
The recent report suggests that Police forces have been actively encouraging victims to come forward and report crimes. This could be a contributing factor to the increase.
It is extremely difficult for victims of domestic abuse to come forward and speak out. Often, they are afraid of the consequences if they report the abuse and the disruption to the family unit particularly, if they have children.
At Ramsdens, we understand that it takes a lot of courage to seek the help and protection that a person suffering from domestic abuse requires. As well as reporting matters to the Police, victims can also seek protection from the Family Courts by way of a Non-Molestation Order. This Order can be obtained without the perpetrator of the abuse knowing about the Application in the first instance. When they are aware of the proceedings the protection will already be in place. The Non-Molestation Order protects the victim of domestic abuse as it prohibits the perpetrator from communicating with them, coming within a certain distance of their property and using or threatening any violence towards them. If the Non-Molestation Order is breached then, the perpetrator would be arrested. It is a criminal offence to breach a Non-Molestation Order.
We have a team of domestic violence specialists who can handle matters in relation to domestic abuse sensitively and professionally. We can also assess you for Legal Aid and ascertain whether you would be financially eligible. If you are not, we can discuss various funding options.
If you or someone that you know would like to speak to a member of our team confidentially then please call us to book a free 30 minute appointment at any of our 12 offices today. Call us free on 08000 147720.