‘Don’t choose to abuse’ – is a new campaign from Staffordshire Police, and encourages men to recognise if they are displaying unhealthy or abusive behaviour within a relationship.
In a two-minute video – aimed at perpetrators, police share the reaction of friends, family and work colleagues when finding out that someone they know is responsible for domestic abuse. It emphasises that this behaviour will be, and quite rightly should be, called out by others, and is not acceptable.
The campaign is also highlighting that if you behave abusively towards your partner you will potentially lose that person, possibly some of your friends too and you will be arrested and convicted of domestic abuse.
The video will be shared through social media and sent to local businesses, universities, colleges, sports clubs and community groups across the county, to hopefully reach as many people as possible.
Police want to encourage conversations about healthy relationships and abusive behaviour, which can be physical, verbal, sexual, psychological or financial.
Abusive behaviour can develop for a number of reasons but ultimately how you choose to behave is down to you and no one else.
Detective Superintendent Victoria Downing, co-ordinating the force response to violence against women and girls, said: “We are committed to tackling violence, abuse and intimidation of women and girls (VAIWG) and we take this very seriously.
“Significant work is underway to prevent, protect and bring justice for those affected by domestic abuse, stalking and harassment, rape, and serious sexual offending.
“We are committed to targeting the perpetrators of these crimes and holding them to account for their actions. We also recognise that in order to prevent these happening in the first-place, work needs to be done to root out toxic misogyny and abuse in society by changing behaviours, taking responsibility and promoting equality and respect.”
“We want to make it clear that we will relentlessly pursue those that are violent and abusive. With the help of our partners across the criminal justice system we are committed to delivering the toughest enforcement available to those found guilty of violence against women and girls.
“Although this campaign is aimed at perpetrators, we want to reiterate that protecting and supporting victims is a priority for us, and we recognise that men and boys can also be victims of violence too.
“We are committed to preventing violence in all its forms across Staffordshire. This is a cultural issue, deep rooted and embedded in society and requires long lasting attitudinal and behavioural change. Everyone has a role to play.”
Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime Ben Adams said: “Protecting people from harm is an absolute priority for me, and much of my Office’s commissioned and partnership activity focuses on preventing people from becoming victims or perpetrators of crime.
“This important campaign shines the spotlight on violence against women and girls, and the unacceptable behaviours that can leave them feeling distressed, anxious and unsafe in their own homes.
“If you’re worried that your behaviour in a relationship is unhealthy or abusive, and want support to change it, help is available. If you’re worried about someone else’s behaviour, speak out.”
On Thursday 30th March, an online chat will take place between 12pm and 2pm, offering a safe place for questions to be asked and support shared on the topic of VAIWG and in particular violence in the home. Questions or comments can be left in advance, or submitted live on the day, by visiting: VAWG/DA online chat (sli.do)
More information about the campaign and details of the help and support available can be found here: Don’t choose to abuse | Staffordshire Police
