Domestic violence levels in Northern Ireland at highest
- 28 Aug
Latest figures have found that there were 27,628 more reported incidents of domestic violence than the highest record in 2004.05.
Police have said that the number of reports of domestic violence are continuing to rise, and from April 2014 to April 2015 there was a 5.6% increase, report U TV.
Ulster University is set to release a report on the issue and outline how police can better support victims. The study will be the first of its kind in Northern Ireland and will interview domestic abuse survivors and PSNI officers.
Ulster University psychologist Dr Cherie Armour said: “It is vitally important that the way in which the PSNI responds to incidents of domestic violence is carefully monitored and reviewed. This is a really challenging role for any police force given the long lasting psychological, social and physical impacts on victims and their families. We found that both groups agreed on several aspects which would improve overall police responses. We hope that the voices represented in this study are listened to and that the recommendations help the PSNI and other professionals to deliver even stronger, more robust support for all victims and survivors of domestic violence.”
PSNI Chief Inspector Simon Ball said he believes the rise in the number of reports “reflects increased confidence in the service we deliver. In the past year alone, more than 3,000 frontline officers have completed training in relation to dealing with domestic abuse and we have introduced a shift rota for our Domestic Violence Officers to ensure better support on a 24/7 basis. We understand that behind every statistic is a victim. Domestic abuse is a frightening crime which can affect anyone regardless of age, race, gender or sexuality. No one should have to endure abuse and we will continue to work closely with our partner agencies, including Women’s Aid to ensure we play our part in dealing with domestic abuse across Northern Ireland.”
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