Published: Friday 09th February 2024 | 5.17pm
A new campaign has been launched between domestic abuse services, local authorities and agencies to raise awareness around Valentine’s Day of the potential early signs of domestic abuse.
The theme of ‘Love Bombing’ was selected as it was identified that most people are not aware of this tactic often used by perpetrators of domestic abuse. Love bombing can be used to establish a way to manipulate and control partner’s right from the early stages of a relationship. It can be a key early indicator that a relationship has the potential to turn abusive; due the initial intensity and pace in which the relationship was formed.
Partners from across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent hope this message will reach those residents affected by domestic abuse to get the help they need; particularly younger people or those entering new relationships where they advise to remain cautious and be alive to spotting any potential red flags.
The campaign leads potential victims to local services, such as New Era, the pan area service for domestic abuse.
Vicki Birks, New Era’s Operations Manager, said: “Domestic abuse can happen to anyone, at any time in their life, sometimes without them even realising that what they’re going through is a form of domestic abuse. Knowing there are trained domestic abuse specialists available will hopefully give them the confidence to query their early relationship, and if necessary seek the help they need, in a confidential, safe environment.”
The partnership encourages people who may be affected to speak out and seek the support of specialist services, or emergency services where necessary.
New Era provides free, confidential help and practical support to anyone affected by domestic abuse – victims, perpetrators and their families – and can be contacted on a confidential 24-hour helpline, 0300 303 3778.
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About New Era
New Era provides free and confidential round-the-clock advice and support for anyone in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent affected by domestic abuse – regardless of their age, ethnicity, gender or location. The service – for victims, perpetrators, as well as their families – is delivered by Victim Support though a team of specialist advisors, focusing on prevention and early intervention.
New Era is co-funded by the Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire and Rescue, and Crime, along with Staffordshire County Council and Stoke-on-Trent City Council.
New Era was launched in October 2018 to enable people to access the same practical and emotional support, wherever they live locally. It offers a wide range of tailored, individual and group support services, for as long as they are needed, in addition to a 24-hour confidential helpline for victims: 0300 303 3778; and a confidential helpline for perpetrators: 0300.
New Era takes its name from its long-term aim of Ending Relationship Abuse.
For more information please contact: Vicki Birks vicki.birks@victimsupport.org.uk