3 comments so far.New summer campaign to raise awareness against domestic violence
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The Commission on Domestic Violence is currently carrying out an awareness raising campaign against domestic violence with the theme ‘No to Domestic Violence.’ This campaign consists of a poster campaign being set up in various bars, restaurants, pubs and other places of entertainment. The posters will be present in these places for the whole summer.
The message ‘No to Domestic Violence’ applies to all the general public, especially to persons who are currently experiencing domestic violence, and to those who are perpetrating the abuse so as to stop being abusive and seeks help.
“The first step to stop or prevent domestic violence is to recognise the signs of domestic abuse. Recognising the signs at an early stage and seeking help is crucial to prevent from further abuse which can sometimes escalate to life threatening situations.”
The Commission said that domestic violence has many forms and this includes emotional, psychological, physical, sexual, financial, as well as stalking. “This results in a situation where the perpetrator gains power and control over the victim, often to the point of isolating the person from one’s family, friends and social life. When children are involved, one cannot underestimate the negative effects on the child as a result of witnessing or experiencing domestic violence.”
Through the poster campaign the Commission on Domestic Violence said that it insists that domestic violence should never be tolerated or excused. It also invites all the general public to say ‘No to Domestic Violence’ collectively as it is in fact a problem that affects all society.
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As a Police Officer in the UK I regularly deal with domestic issues. We have moved away from the term “Domestic Violence” and now use “Domestic Abuse”. Victims are more likely to identify themselves as victims of abuse rather than violence. “Violence” has the suggestion that the abuse is physical – when clearly that is not always the case.
I think the important thing here is that the problem is being discussed not the wording – this is not England!!
Absolutely the most important thing here is that the issue is discussed. Raising awareness to the range of abuse is vital.
The word / term violence can act as a barrier for some who do not identify with it. For many years I have heard people say “you can’t help me because my partner doesn’t hit me” or “Its OK he/she isn’t violent”. From experience I have seen how damaging this lack of understanding can be. Discussing and raising awareness can help break down this barrier and illustrate that domestic violence goes beyond the physical violence. Campaigns are vital. Discussing what can often be seen as a taboo subject is vital. The main thing is that victims of domestic violence / abuse understand what domestic violence / abuse is and seek the help and support they need.