DON’T SUFFER IN SILENCE - Domestic Abuse roadshows…

Bedford Borough Council is holding roadshow events throughout Bedford to highlight Domestic Abuse Awareness week running between 21 to 25 November.

As part of the national campaign, Bedford Borough Council's Community Safety Partnership will be holding roadshows at various locations to raise awareness of domestic abuse and outline the support services which are available not only to victims, but also professionals who deal with issues surrounding this subject.

Cllr Sarah-Jayne Holland, Portfolio Holder for Community and Regulatory Services at Bedford Borough Council, said: "Some victims of domestic abuse consider this a private matter, which should be dealt with behind closed doors and so are slow to seek help. There is no shame in seeking advice and people do not need to suffer alone. Support is out there and it's crucial that people know that and take it up. I hope our events will encourage individuals to have the confidence to come forward and report domestic abuse."

Throughout the week, community safety representatives will also be promoting national White Ribbon day, 25 November 2011, inspired by The White Ribbon Pledge and lead by men who campaign to stop domestic violence against women.

Although women might be the primary victims of this type of assault, the day was set up to seek support from men to help stamp down on domestic abuse and raise awareness.

To find out how people can get involved visit: www.whiteribboncampaign.co.uk/getinvolved

Dates of the Bedford Borough Council roadshows:

24th Nov 2011

9:30am to 12:30pm

Queens Park Neighbourhood Centre, Bedford

25th Nov 2011

9:30am to 12:30pm

Saxon Centre, Kempston

21st Nov 2011

9:30am to 4:30pm

Harpur Suite, Bedford