Domestic violence: Don't suffer in silence

Sep 13 2008 by Emma Davison, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

STOP THE VIOLENCE

For thousands of people in Kirklees, domestic violence is a terrible reality. But as EMMA DAVISON reports, they do not have to, and should not, suffer in silence

EMMERDALE fans have been gripped by the harrowing scenes of Jo Sugden being subjected to domestic violence by her husband Andy.

For months they have watched the young wife suffering horrific psychological and physical violence at the hands of the ex-jailbird.

But for thousands of people living in Kirklees, domestic violence is a terrifying reality, with the torment continuing long after the credits roll.

One woman who sees first-hand the devastating impact it can have on people’s lives is Thelma Singleton, the district’s anti-domestic violence strategic coordinator.

She and the Kirklees Domestic Violence Team provide help and support for victims and are behind this week’s campaign to raise awareness of domestic violence in Kirklees.

Thelma said: “Domestic violence has a devastating effect on people’s lives, but there’s no need for them to suffer in silence as Kirklees provides a huge number of services to help them.

“A lot of people don’t like to own up to it, whether they are the abuser or the abused, but they really do need help as soon as possible.”