Live Fear Free campaign asks – ‘Think you know what’s happening in your street?’

The next phase of the Live Fear Free campaign launches today (13 July) highlighting the need for people to speak up if they suspect that a friend, family member or colleague is a victim of domestic abuse.

It is the second in a series of campaigns designed to support the ground-breaking Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (Wales) Act which received Royal Assent on 29th April.

More than 47,000 incidents of domestic abuse were reported to the police in Wales last year, though it is likely there were many more.

This Welsh Government campaign aims to raise public awareness of domestic abuse and demonstrate that it can happen anywhere, in our cities, towns and rural areas.

The posters show that while some people are undertaking routine activities like buying shoes and ordering pizza, others may be suffering behind closed doors.

These posters will be seen on roadsides and in toilet cubicles, alongside a social media campaign on Facebook and Twitter and a radio advert.

Public Services Minister Leighton Andrews said:

“Domestic abuse is not always easy to spot and signs can go unnoticed for months, even years.

“With so many victims of domestic abuse, the chances are we all know someone who is suffering. We must watch out for the warning signs and speak out if we see them.

“Anyone can call the Live Fear Free helpline at any time and I would encourage anyone who is worried that a friend, family member or colleague is a victim of domestic abuse to do so.”

If you think you know someone suffering from domestic abuse, or are a victim yourself, call the free, 24-hour confidential helpline now on 0808 80 10 800 or visit livefearfree.org for further information.