Home Truths
Home Truths is our campaign to tackle domestic abuse, launched in 2005 to raise awareness of this often-hidden crime in society and to signpost where to get help if you are a victim of abuse or know someone who is being abused.
Tackling domestic abuse is a key priority for West Mercia Police and we are committed to working with partner organisations to support the victims of domestic abuse, reduce the numbers of offences and bring offenders to justice.
Domestic abuse is an under-reported crime – we know that police are only told of around 35% of offences – and much of the Home Truths campaign focuses on providing information to victims to assist them in getting help. This has been achieved through a number of marketing initiatives:
- Our online Advice Centre has a wealth of information to help victims, their friends and families get help, along with details for abusers who want to change their behaviour.
- Advertising on buses has been used across the force area to promote the 'Don't Suffer in Silence' message and advertise Domestic Abuse helpline numbers.
- Posters and leaflets have been distributed at pubs, community centres, youth groups, schools, doctor's surgeries, hospitals, libraries and Citizens Advice Bureaux. These were chosen to provide discreet ways for victims of abuse to see helpline numbers and information. Posters have been translated into Polish and Punjabi to increase awareness.
- A forced marriage and honour-based violence conference was held in December 2008, fronted by actress Lynda Bellingham. It came as part of the force's contribution to the international Sixteen Days of Action to End Violence Against Women campaign.
- We are working with Crimestoppers to provide an alternative and anonymous method for anyone who wants to report domestic abuse.
To find out more information on what to do if you or someone you know is suffering from domestic abuse, please visit our Advice Centre.
You can also keep up-to-date on the latest initiatives in the Home Truths campaign by subscribing to our RSS feed.