V is for Valentine, not violence!

As a supporter of the White Ribbon campaign - which encourages men to make a stand against violence towards women - St Helens Council is also

backing the Home Office's This is Abuse campaign.

 

The government initiative includes TV advertisements featuring Hollyoaks stars Nikki Sanderson and Jeremy Sheffield in a scene that highlights how some relationships can be based on abusive, controlling behaviour.

 

St Helens Council's Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Housing, Planning and Community Safety, Councillor Richard McCauley said: "Domestic abuse isn't just physical.

"Research suggests that many women aren't aware of this sort of controlling behaviour. The TV ads are a real eye opener - highlighting the issue and showing how the cycle of abuse can start."

The council will be using social media to promote a series of messages including:

Love is in the air... but not for everyone.
Love shouldn't hurt.
V is for Valentine, not violence.
Facebook and Twitter users will also be encouraged to add a White Ribbon to their profiles to raise awareness.

"It only takes a minute," said Councillor McCauley, "and the more people who add a ribbon to their profile picture, the more it will help to raise awareness of the White Ribbon campaign, which works to end male violence against women."

The council will also be flying the White Ribbon flag over the town hall throughout the Valentine week (10 to 16 Fe

 

bruary) to underline its support.

Although there is no statistical evidence to show an increase in domestic violence around Valentine's Day, there are several factors in play that can create problems, such as high expectations and financial stress.

 

Domestic violence is a crime that's often hidden and under-reported. Yet last year there were still 700 incidents of domestic violence reported to Merseyside Police in St.Helens in November and December alone.

To support the campaign on Facebook or Twitter, go to http://twibbon.com/support/the-white

 

-ribbon-campaignand click one, or both of the options, to add a Twibbon (White Ribbon) to your Twitter or Facebook profile picture. You will then be asked to log into your social media account and give permission for the Ribbon to be featured on your profile.

You can also support the campaign by pledging your support: visit www.whiteribbon.co.uk

 

For help and support regarding domestic violence or abuse - contact the Independent Domestic Violence Advocate on 01744 743200 or Helena 24 hour refuge & support on 01925 220541
To find out more about abusive behaviour visit http://thisisabuse.direct.gov.uk/