The pocket-sized survival card is designed to offer a range of phone numbers and essential advice for people in emergency domestic situations. It can fit into a purse and be easily carried at all times. It will be available at various offices and community buildings. It is also available to partner agencies on request.
PLEASE DISPLAY THE CARDS IN YOUR BUILDING OR DISTRIBUTE CARDS TO OTHER VENUES IN YOUR AREA WHERE PEOPLE MIGHT SEE THEM.
There are two new features to note. Firstly, the version of the card has been updated with more numbers, plus 6 translations of the title (Urdu, Punjabi, Somali, Gujurati, Bengali) so that different communities might access the help they need.
Secondly, the card also has important information on a strategy called "Visual Evidence for Victims", offered by Victim Support and by other groups. It recognises that people do not always report domestic violence straight away - which is why VEV can help. It can build personal confidence as well as gathering important evidence that could be used at a later date. It can help reduce violence, protect women, and deter perpetrators.
A Domestic Violence poster, with a warning message to deter perpetrators, is also available to help promote the campaign.
Hall Green Constituency (comprising Sparkbrook, Springfield, Moseley & Kings Heath, Hall Green wards) began a major domestic violence campaign in 2006. The campaign encouraged earlier reporting using cards, leaflets, advertising sites and awareness training. Further planning in 2007 began after a constituency training event organised by Womens Aid and Hall Green LDG.
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Physical injuries caused by domestic abuse cost the NHS £1.2 billion |
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2 women a day are murdered by a partner or ex partner |
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15% of men also suffer domestic abuse |
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An average of 35 incidents occur before reporting it to Police |
Hall Green Constituency Director Bret Willers said "Domestic Violence is a serious issue. These shocking statistics are at the heart of our planning as it shows people are suffering in silence and not reporting domestic abuse. We want people to report domestic violence to someone - either to front line staff in the Council or to voluntary organisations who can help signpost people to the type of help that they might need.
Community Safety Manager Andy Tipper said, "Hall Green Local Delivery Group achieved a very successful campaign last year. The survival card in particular proved to be very popular with the public and agencies so it was redesigned with some added features. We were delighted that some people did come forward to get help and hope this latest campaign will help more people to be better protected."
For more details (or copies of the survival card) please call Hall Green Constituency Office on 675 9000.