My colleague, Rachel Carnell, our domestic violence coordinator has put out the following:
VALENTINES DAY – DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Valentines Day for some women is a day filled with flowers and chocolates but for others is just another day in the year where they live in fear of both physical and mental abuse from their partner.
Domestic abuse is a very real situation for many and can see women living in fear of an abusive, controlling and violent partner.
Women's Aid highlighted during a 2007 campaign which was focused around Valentine's Day because one of the features of abusive relationships is that they often begin with what may at first be seen by a woman as a flattering display of romantic love.
But along with the chocolates, flowers and poetry can come the first danger signs of unreasonable jealousy and possessiveness. In many abusive relationships this 'love' becomes violent and controlling - a pattern of physical, emotional, sexual and verbal abuse that often escalates over time.
Police Domestic Violence Co-ordinator PC Rachael Carnell explained: “Valentines Day for many is just another day where the threat of physical or mental abuse is always there.
“Abusive relationships can often start very romantically with flowers and chocolates but this can soon deteriorate into for many a dangerous and controlling relationship. I would urge anyone suffering from Domestic Abuse at this time of year to contact one of the many helplines available.”
In Plymouth, Domestic Abuse is a very real issue with approximately 5361 instances being recorded by the police in the year. This means around 103 instances a week, with many crimes going unreported this number could be significantly higher. Help and advice is available for anyone suffering from Domestic Abuse and will be dealt with in a strictly confidential manner.
If you are a victim or know someone who is a victim of Domestic Abuse please call:
Devon & Cornwall Police – 08452 777444/ or 999 in an emergency; Domestic Abuse helpline – 0808 2000 247 (24hrs); Plymouth Women’s Aid – 01752 252033
Police Domestic Violence Co-ordinator PC Rachael Carnell explained: “Valentines Day for many is just another day where the threat of physical or mental abuse is always there. 
