Show the Red Card to Domestic Violence

Date published: 01 June 2010

Rossendale Community Safety Partnership launches its World Cup Domestic Violence Awareness Campaign this week. The Campaign will run over the summer as part of a wider East Lancashire campaign.

Posters, beer mats and fixture lists in the form of a red card will be distributed to licensed premises across the Borough carrying the message 'Show the Red Card to Domestic Violence'.

Cllr Peter Steen, Chair of the Partnership said, "We want everyone to enjoy the World Cup, but whatever the results of the games, domestic violence will not be tolerated. We are working with our partners to ensure help and support is available to anyone who needs it".

Trish Ellins, Community Safety Manager for Rossendale Borough Council said, "Research shows large scale sporting events and an increase in alcohol consumption is linked to a rise in incidents of domestic violence".

Chief Inspector Ian Sewart added, "This Campaign message is very clear and the police will not hesitate in dealing swiftly with domestic violence offenders. We will take positive action and will use all powers open to us to ensure the safety of victims. We are taking a number of pre-emptive steps to ensure that those who have offended previously do not do so again. Additional police officers will be on duty throughout the event to ensure such crime is dealt with positively and to reassure victims that the police treat domestic violence very seriously indeed. We know that alcohol is involved in over half of violent offences and if you are out watching the World Cup in town or getting into the football spirit at home, we urge you to drink responsibly and not to put yourself or others at risk of harm".

For support and advice on Domestic Abuse you can contact The STAR Centre on 01706 830600 or the National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0800 2000 247.

For further information contact Trish Ellins, Community Safety Manager, Rossendale Borough Council on 01706 252542