New Support for Domestic Abuse Victims in Filey and Eastfield

Filey and Eastfield Police working alongside Scarborough Fire and Rescue launch online initiative to help young people experiencing domestic abuse.

The initiative is scheduled to run over the next twelve months. Whilst Covid-19 restrictions remain in place it will be run as a series of online Q&A sessions but once these are lifted, a programme of community based events will be introduced.

The programme will be hosted on Fire and Rescue Services virtual conference facilities, where specialist Domestic Abuse Officers from the North Yorkshire Police’s Safeguarding Team and Fire and Rescue Service Community Safety Officers will offer advice, alongside specialists from IDAS – Independent Domestic Abuse Services. The first session, organised in conjunction with George Pindar School, will be on the topic of safeguarding children.

Inspector Andy Short of Filey and Eastfield Neighbourhood Policing Team says

 “Domestic violence has a devastating impact on children and young people that can last until adulthood.”

“With the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic we know that this is a difficult and worrying time for everyone – but particularly so for children living with abuse - and the professionals working hard to support them. 

“The effects of domestic violence on adults are well documented. Far less is known about the impact on children who witness a parent or caregiver being subjected to violence. These children – the forgotten victims of violence in the home – are the focus of this initiative.

 “I would emphasise that the police does prioritise helping victims of abuse and that we are still very much here to help during the Covid-19 pandemic. I would urge victims to come forward and for the public to report any concerns they have to us by calling 101”.

Graeme Casper, Station Manager, Scarborough Fire and Rescue Service added

“North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service collaboration with North Yorkshire Police, to deliver a virtual safeguarding awareness session, is an ideal opportunity to ensure our community be safe and feel safe in North Yorkshire. By working together we can deliver the best services possible for residents, business owners and visitors to the county. During these worrying times it is important to keep in touch with the community to offer support and advice where it is needed”.

Carmel Offord from IDAS said,

“Domestic abuse is everyone’s business. We all have a role to play in preventing violence and abuse. Often it is friends, neighbours, colleagues and family members who have an insight into someone’s life and can spot the warning signs that a relationship isn’t healthy. We are pleased to be working with the police on this event and I hope that it encourages people to take action and report their concerns.

"We are very worried about people who are frightened and at risk of harm from a partner, ex-partner or family members. The lockdown has highlighted the stark reality of domestic abuse; that abusers take away people’s freedoms and control their lives. It has impacted victims and survivors of domestic abuse, with perpetrators behaviour becoming more violent and victims experiencing additional isolation. Despite the challenges of lockdown, we have continued to provide an uninterrupted service, increasing capacity on our helplines and extending our live chat, as well as keeping our refuges open, in line with government guidance. Our teams are here to support anyone affected by domestic abuse and we would urge you to get in touch with us for confidential, non-judgemental advice and support.”

During these difficult times North Yorkshire Police is calling upon everybody in the local community to be extra vigilant and report incidents of suspected domestic abuse by dialling 101 or, in an emergency dial 999.

If victims do not want to involve the police, they can still seek confidential professional help and support from IDAS, the Independent Domestic Abuse Service, on their 24 hour helpline 03000 110 110.

Victims can also receive information and support from Supporting Victims, a North Yorkshire based service put in place by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner. Call 01609 643100  to access the necessary level of support that’s right for you or  visit www.supportingvictims.org