AVON and Somerset Police have said they will do everything to protect victims of domestic abuse as a new campaign to raise awareness about abuse is launched.

The campaign, launched in Bristol, calls on people not to ignore a gut feeling that something may be wrong and to report their concerns.

It comes in response to recent domestic homicide reviews which showed that victims weren’t known to services, but that friends and family were aware the abuse was happening.

Avon and Somerset Police are raising awareness of the signs to look out for and that abuse can be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers.

Chief inspector Andy Bennett, force lead for domestic abuse, said: “Domestic abuse is an abhorrent crime in all its forms and we all have a responsibility to help tackle it. 
Many people who’ve experienced domestic abuse say they didn’t recognise they were in an abusive relationship until they were out of it.

“With this campaign, we hope to encourage everyone to recognise the signs of abuse and feel empowered to report it.

“When police receive information about domestic abuse it’s always treated extremely seriously.

“We’ll do everything we can to ensure victims of domestic abuse get the support they need and we have a whole range of tools at our disposal to help us do this.”

As part of the campaign, new guides for family and friends have been produced and will be available to download online.

Billboards will also be put up across Avon and Somerset along with posters and postcards in key locations such as libraries and health centres.

Information about the campaign is being offered to local neighbourhood watch groups.

Sue Mountstevens, Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner, added: “Domestic and sexual abuse is never the victim’s fault. I want any victims listening to know that they can come forward and report knowing that they will be taken seriously and will be believed.

The help guides, support services and other information about the campaign can be found at thisisnotanexcuse.org.

You can report suspected domestic abuse anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

You can also contact police by calling 101. In an emergency, always call 999.

Information about local support services can also be found at lighthousevictimcare.org.