Dyfed Powys Police has launched a Christmas domestic abuse awareness campaign.
It will run from December 17 2009 to January 1 2010 and aims to tackle the issue at a peak time of year for domestic abuse incidents for the force.
The campaign entitled ‘Another Boxing Day?’ includes posters and radio adverts.
Detective Inspector Owain Richards said: “At the Christmas and New Year period people tend to indulge in the festivities and drink more alcohol than usual. This leads us to see an increase in domestic abuse incidents”.
“Domestic abuse covers a wide spectrum and doesn’t have to include violence”.
“Our campaign aims to highlight the issue and reassure victims to come forward to seek help and support. The Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Carmarthen provides a unique venue where men, women, young people and children who have been affected by rape, sexual assault or abuse can receive support and advice”
“We also want to send a message to offenders that if they commit domestic abuse they will be arrested.”
The force has specialist domestic abuse officers who can provide advice and guidance to protect the most high risk victims.
The campaign is being supported by the Dyfed-Powys Domestic Abuse Forum.
Anyone concerned about a family member or friend who maybe suffering from domestic abuse can get help and advice by logging onto www.thepurpledirectory.org or by contacting the confidential Welsh Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 801 0800.
