Homeless domestic and sexual abuse victims rise by 25% in Copeland

The number of homeless domestic and sexual abuse victims in Copeland has risen by more than 25% over the past 18 months.

As incidents of domestic abuse are shown to rise over Christmas, Copeland Borough Council has recruited a full-time support officer to work with those affected.

The Specialist Prevention and Crisis Support Officer will deliver prevention classes while working with other groups to promote safeguarding and raise awareness through different events.

The council is also buying two properties to provide a safe place for victims of abuse and exploitation.

One of the properties is specifically for victims with children.

The Member Champion and project lead at Copeland Council for the prevention of domestic abuse said:

The Mayor of Copeland commented:

• What is domestic violence and abuse?

• What is sexual assualt?

Anyone who thinks they are in immediate danger of abuse or exploitation shoudl call 999 immediately.

Those affected by the issues should call the National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 2000 247 or email helpline@refuge.org.uk.