00:00Domestic abuse can happen to anyone. It affects people of every age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexuality and background.
00:09And it can happen in any relationship.
00:12That's the message behind a new awareness campaign from Avon and Somerset Police,
00:17featuring officers and police staff who've lived through domestic abuse themselves.
00:22I'm going to talk to you about how you'll be treated if you report domestic abuse.
00:28If you report domestic abuse, you will be treated with care, respect and dignity.
00:34We understand how difficult it can be to come forward.
00:37And you'll be given the time and space to explain what's been happening in a way that feels safe for
00:43you.
00:44We will listen carefully, take your concerns seriously and look at the full picture, not just one incident.
00:50Our priority is your safety and we'll work with you to understand what support and protection you need.
00:58That could include protective measures like bail conditions, a domestic violence protection notice, signposting to specialist support or practical steps
01:07to keep you safe.
01:09But importantly, you'll be kept informed and involved throughout the whole investigation.
01:14Abuse doesn't have to be physical to be real, and it doesn't have to leave marks for us to prove
01:20it.
01:21Abuse can be patterns like constant monitoring, isolating you from friends or family, controlling your money or making you feel
01:29afraid.
01:31We look at the bigger picture over time.
01:34That might include messages, call logs, social media, bank records, CCTV or statements from friends, family or neighbours who've noticed
01:44changes.
01:45Your own account is powerful evidence too.
01:48We absolutely recognise it's about patterns of control, not one single incident.
01:54If it isn't safe for you to use the phone, there are other ways you can reach out to us.
01:59You can report online using our domestic abuse reporting form.
02:03If you feel more comfortable, you can also visit a police station.
02:07We will handle your report with care and sensitivity, and private spaces are available so you can speak safely and
02:13in confidence.
02:14If it's not safe for an officer to visit your home, we can arrange to meet you at a safe
02:18time and place for you.
02:20You can also use our evidence-based victim reporting, EVR service, to securely share information and evidence in your own
02:28time.
02:29You can also speak to trusted professionals such as a GP, support worker or an independent domestic violence advisor who
02:36can support you in making a report and help you stay safe.
02:40However you choose to reach out, we will listen to you, take you seriously and do everything we can to
02:47keep you safe.
02:48The message throughout the campaign is that support is available, whether someone's ready to report an offence or simply wants
02:53to understand the options open to them.
02:55Avon and Somerset Police say nobody should face domestic abuse alone.
Comments