CONCERNS have been raised over the worrying number of domestic abuse incidents in Fermanagh after police were called to deal with almost 60 incidents in just three weeks.
Figures obtained by the Fermanagh Herald shows that from December 16 until January 5, 58 domestic abuse victims contacted police.
On average, police attended homes around Fermanagh around three times a day to deal with domestic violence.
The high number of cases has prompted UUP councillor Rosemary Barton to appeal for others who are suffering to contact support groups or the police.
Cllr Barton, who is also a member of the PSCP (Policing and Community Safety Partnership), said: “For 58 incidents to be reported in three weeks is too many, that’s a huge number. I would be concerned that there is far too much alcohol being taken during Christmas.
“A lot of it seems to stem from drinking at home because alcohol so accessible. I would advise that anyone who is a victim to come out to police and report them because there is plenty of support available from groups like Women’s Aid and other organisations.”
The PCSP launched a Domestic Violence awareness campaign which took place throughout December and early January.
An initiative, named Behind Closed Doors, aims to encourage people to give information anonymously about suspected domestic violence perpetrators.
Annie Campbell, who is the director of Women’s Aid Federation, said that time of year is always very difficult for people suffering from domestic violence.
“The numbers of domestic abuse incidents that are reported are quite frightening but I’m not surprised by those numbers. We always are deeply effected by these as we know behind those 58 incidents that are hundreds and indeed thousands of incidents who aren’t being recognised as victims.
“We know through Women’s Aid the number of women and children who need refuge and need our support and services to help them away from the abuse.
“I think there are particular problems for women and children in rural areas, such as isolation, lack of transport, lack of infrastructure, a lot of services that does make it more difficult. That’s why it’s so important that information about the services does get out.
“Fermanagh Women’s Aid is very strong and locally based service.”
Sergeant Pamela Wilson, of the District Public Protection Unit, explained: “Police have been working very hard over a number of years to tackle domestic abuse and support victims. There is a real commitment to assisting victims, reducing offending and bringing perpetrators to justice. We have been working with our partner agencies to find new ways of helping victims and encouraging people to come forward and seek help.
“Our experience in dealing with domestic abuse makes it clear that providing information is crucial. Providing details of how a victim can get help could be the first step in helping someone out of a situation they do not want to be in.”
The regional helpline is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and available for men and women affected by domestic and sexual violence on 0808 802 1414.
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