Reported cases of domestic abuse in Warwickshire have not risen through Covid-19 outbreak

A report from domestic abuse charity Refuge revealed earlier this month that calls to its helpline had risen by 25 per cent since the lockdown began and figures from the Metropolitan Police say they were arresting an average of 100 people a day across London for domestic violence offences.

But Chief Constable Martin Jelley said: “ Domestic abuse incidents have continued to remain at the levels we saw prior to the restrictions being put in place, albeit we are fully aware that those who suffer at the hands of others may feel isolated with reduced opportunity to report.

“We continue to work in partnership with Warwickshire County Council, Refuge and other key partners to ensure that the messages get out to those who need us most, encourage reporting and not to suffer in silence and report their concerns.”

Mr Jelley was responding to a question raised by a member of the public and put to him by Warwickshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Seccombe as part of a special Q&A session.

The chief constable added: “Specific newsletters and leaflets have been prepared and delivered to all households within the county, including those on the ‘shielded’ list, with a variety of messages contained including domestic abuse advice, ensuring that we reach the most vulnerable within our communities. This is being supplemented by on-line advice and guidance and a significant social media campaign.

“The vital message is that individuals who are concerned about being subjected to any form of abuse or coercion feel supported and are aware of the opportunities to seek help and advice.”

Other questions related to crime levels during the lockdown and the policing across Warwickshire of the Covid-19 restrictions.

Mr Seccombe said: “It’s an important part of my role that I hold the chief constable to account to ensure on the public’s behalf that policing is being delivered against the priorities that matter most to local people. This is especially important during the current Covid-19 public health emergency to ensure public confidence.

“I was pleased to hear there remains strong public support for the approach they have been taking towards enforcement, only using it as a last resort when other efforts to engage with people have not proved effective.

“Crime is down across many categories, albeit with levels expected to stabilise and then return to more normal levels as restrictions begin to ease.”

The full range of questions and answers can be found on the OPCC website at: www.warwickshire-pcc.gov.uk/key-information/police-performance/performance-accountability-meeting-covid-19-edition/