Avon and Somerset Police have marked the first anniversary of a new law established to protect victims of domestic abuse and violence, and announced that since the introduction 59 people have been arrested for the offence.
The Serious Crime Act 2015 was amended last December to include a new offence of controlling or coercive behaviour. It’s been described by one survivor as ‘domestic abuse without the bruises.’
Since the law was introduced last December, police have arrested 59 people for this new offence.
Domestic Abuse lead for Avon and Somerset Police Supt. Andy Bennett said: “Most people understand domestic abuse to be physical violence between two people in a relationship.
“While this is true, there are other, perhaps more subtle ways someone can be controlled or abused by another in a domestic setting.
“It might include someone having their finances controlled, being told what to wear or humiliated on a daily basis –things that people outside looking in might not pick up on or see as domestic abuse.
“This legislation covers all familial relationships – not just partner or spouse. It can include parents, children (over 16) or in-laws.
“Although this type of abuse is hard to prove, we want you to tell us and you will be believed.
“Our advice to anyone in an abusive relationship of any kind is simple – just tell someone. Speak to someone you trust and just let them know or give them a sign.
“Of course you can always speak to us or get support and advice from the independent website thisisnotanexcuse.org.
“To friends or family members who suspect a loved one is being controlled or abused we ask you to look, listen, ask, ask again.”
The law around coercive or controlling behaviour carries a maximum prison sentence of five years, a fine or both.
Police and Crime Commissioner for Avon and Somerset Sue Mountstevens said: “No one has the right to control or abuse another person either physically or mentally. Controlling and coercive behaviour includes isolating a person from their friends and family; depriving them of their basic needs; monitoring their time, communications and much more.
“There are no excuses for domestic abuse and I believe you should be able to trust your loved ones and have a mutual respect for one another. Being in an intimate or family relationship is not an excuse to control or coerce another individual and that’s why I so strongly welcomed the change in legislation a year ago.
“Any type of abuse is an inexcusable form of cruelty and will not be tolerated in Avon and Somerset. If you have been a victim of this terrible crime, please know that you are not alone and that help and support is available. If you choose to report to the police know you will be listened to, taken seriously and believed.
“The Constabulary and I are working closely with all local authorities to raise awareness of domestic abuse and the services that can help if you’re a victim or know someone who is.
“We know that domestic abuse can happen to anyone and I ask everyone to look, listen, ask and ask again to take us one step further in our battle against domestic abuse.”
To report any incident of domestic abuse, call Avon and Somerset Police on 101 or make a report on their website. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Information and support services can be accessed via thisisnotanexcuse.org.