A pledge to speak out in the fight against domestic violence

Sixteen days of campaigning will start today in the fight against domestic violence.

People are being asked to make a pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about abuse during the campaign.

Wakefield Council has teamed up with the fire service, police and other organisations to support the 16 Days of Action campaign.

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Coun Maureen Cummings, the council’s cabinet member for environment and communities, said: “Domestic violence is more commonplace than many people may realise.

“We want victims to report incidents, and we also want to encourage perpetrators to seek help and support to change their behaviour.

“We are making progress with more people seeking help through the Wakefield Domestic Abuse Service but more needs to be done.”

One in four women and one in six men experience some form of abuse in the home during their lives.

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The launch of the campaign today marks the start of International Day of Elimination of Violence Against Women. It will run until December 10, which is Human Rights Day. Firefighters will support the campaign by wearing blue light badges to symbolise a commitment to end domestic violence.

Events around the district include a conference at the West Yorkshire Police Training School in Carr Gate on December 9.

Coun Cummings said: “One organisation alone cannot tackle such a serious issue. This why it is essential that individuals and partners all continue to work together, to raise awareness and educate people about this.”

To contact the Wakefield District Domestic Abuse Service call 0800 915 1561 or log on to www.wakefield.gov.uk/domesticabuse