PEOPLE who may be in situations of domestic abuse have been urged to reach out for help.
The Leader reported recently how a total of 31,546 domestic incidents involving physical violence were reported to North Wales Police from the beginning of 2017 to May 25 this year.
Sergeant Sofiah Valentine, who oversees Operation Unite - North Wales Police’s response to tackling violence against women and girls - spoke of the signs that someone may be in an abusive relationship and what to do if you have concerns.
She said: "There are many indicators that a person may be in danger of domestic abuse, and they can often be unique in each case.
"It is important to remember that domestic abuse is not limited to violence.
"Some indicators may include becoming isolated from family and friends or a partner who appears excessively jealous or controlling.
READ MORE: More than 30,000 incidents of violent domestic abuse in North Wales since 2017
"For example, if your outgoing friend is suddenly never available or is getting repeating calls or texts asking where they are if they are out, this could be a sign of controlling behaviour.
"Other indicators may include cruelty and threats, being shamed or threatening to ‘out’ their partner.
"If you are worried that a friend or family member may be in danger of domestic abuse, you can report your concerns to police.
"However, if you would like information, advice or support prior to this, you can contact the Live Fear Free help line on 08088010800.
"They offer support to both victims of domestic abuse, and friends or loved ones who have concerns.
"Alternatively, you may be eligible for a disclosure under Clare’s Law which is a scheme that allows a person to ask the police if their partner, or the partner of a close friend or family member may pose a risk to them.
"Any level of domestic abuse is unacceptable, no one should feel afraid in their own home."
Detective Inspector Dean Jones is part of North Wales Police's domestic abuse perpetrator programme ADAPT (Agencies Domestic Abuse Perpetrators Tasking).
The initiative sees North Wales Police chair a multi-agency panel once a month to discuss a cohort of domestic abuse perpetrators from each of the six local authorities.
It aims to reduce re-offending of domestic abuse perpetrators, safeguard adults and children at risk of domestic abuse and break the cycle of abuse of the perpetrator by changing or disrupting offender behaviour.
DI Jones said: "The Policing approach to domestic abuse has changed significantly over the years and it is seen as a priority nationally for Policing and all partner agencies for good reason.
READ MORE: Plea to not suffer in silence as domestic abuse continues to be an 'epidemic'
"It is the highest volume reported crime and yet still massively under reported by victims for various reasons.
"Police will take positive action in the response to domestic abuse and work with our partners to safeguard the vulnerable and robustly pursue suspects offenders.
"I would urge anyone suffering domestic abuse to contact the police or any other agency/organisation they feel safe to do so (their doctor, women’s aid, social services).
"The report will be taken seriously and investigated. Where there is concerns around new relationships I would also remind people (and their friends and family) of Claires law, the right to know/right to ask under domestic abuse disclosure scheme.
"Applications for disclosure of relevant history on a partner can be made in person at the police station by calling 101 or online."
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