Cheshire Police to host web chat on domestic abuse

People affected by domestic abuse are being reminded that they are not alone during the Coronavirus crisis.

Cheshire West and Chester Council Domestic Abuse Intervention and Prevention Service is joining representatives from other domestic abuse agencies across the county to take part in live web chats hosted by Cheshire Police.

The next live web chat will be held on Thursday 28 May at 10am.

Anyone with questions or worries is able to join in by submitting their concerns anonymously about their situation. Family members or friends are also able to find out what they should do if they are concerned about loved ones. Representatives are able to answer queries relevant to where people live.

Questions in earlier live chats have included how to report domestic abuse, worries about the longer term effects on children, what constitutes controlling and coercive behaviour, BAME (Black, Asian and minority ethnic) concerns and the fear of reprisals if reporting a spouse or partner.

Councillor Robert Cernik, Cabinet Member for Children and Families, said: “We have found the early web chats really useful in supporting local people affected by domestic abuse. In the current situation we are very keen for people to know how and where to access support. You are not alone at this difficult time. If you would like to seek help and advice we encourage you to get in touch.”

Police and Crime Commissioner David Keane added: “This is an extremely difficult time for anyone who is victim to domestic abuse as they are trapped at home with abusive partners with limited ways to seek support.

“The web chats provide a safe and secure outlet for people to get in touch with police and support services to get vital advice about how to stay safe.

“Domestic abuse doesn’t have to stay behind closed doors. Cheshire’s Open the Door is there to help people get the help they need and to bring this hidden crime out into the open.”

Anyone suffering in silence behind closed doors or family, friends, neighbours or work colleagues with concerns about someone they know is urged to take part in the live web chat being held on Thursday at 10am.

Cheshire’s web chat is a virtual chat during which police, fire and safeguarding experts will work together to answer any questions on the force’s Facebook page. 

Those who would like to submit a question have the option of sending one in advance by emailing: digital.team@cheshire.pnn.police.uk, sending a private message to us during the session if they wish to remain anonymous, or simply posting a question to the Q&A post on the Cheshire Police Facebook page. Steps are taken to ensure anonymity for anyone submitting questions either in advance or during the web chat.