09 Feb 2025
The run-up to Valentine’s Day is hard to miss. The world becomes full of hearts, flowers and chocolates, but no number of flowers or chocolates can make up for domestic abuse.
People say and do all sorts of things ‘in the name of love’. But if those things include violence, bullying, mind games or controlling behaviour then that isn’t love.
In the year ended March 31 2024, Hertfordshire Constabulary recorded 19,478 DA crimes and incidents. From January-November 2024, in St Albans alone there were over 1,100 domestic abuse related crimes recorded by the police.
Did you know that one in four women and one in six men live with some form of domestic abuse in their lifetime? Two women a week are killed by a partner or ex-partner in this country. 30 per cent of domestic homicides happen on work premises.
Anyone can experience domestic abuse, regardless of gender, sexuality, background or age.
No one deserves it. If you are experiencing domestic abuse, don’t suffer in silence, the first step is to talk.
Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline provides a confidential listening and signposting service. Call free on 08 088 088 088 (Mon to Fri 9am to 9pm, Sat and Sun 9am to 4pm) or email Kim@mailpurple.org.
They provide a safe space for people to discuss their situation and don’t want anyone to suffer in silence.
This year, with the support of St Albans District Chamber of Commerce, the Helpline is reaching out to local businesses for their valuable support in one of three ways.
They are asking employers to consider allowing their employees to use their volunteering days to:
1. Participate in leaflet drops: Distribute vital information about the helpline in their local area to increase awareness and accessibility.
2. Become volunteer call takers: Join the helpline team to provide compassionate support to those in need. This role involves some online training and two face-to-face training days and is for those
who would like to contribute to two hours per week within their own time, and in the comfort of their own homes.
3. Or if volunteering isn’t an option, you could choose Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline as your charity of the year by organising a number of fundraising events or activities.
By supporting their work, your business can make a huge difference in the lives of those affected by domestic abuse while also contributing to meaningful social change in our community.
For more information head to www.hertsdomesticabusehelpline.org
