Extra cash as domestic violence is up by 15 percent (From Croydon Guardian)

Extra cash as domestic violence is up by 15 percent

3:50pm Friday 5th October 2012 in News

More money is to be invested in fighting domestic violence as figures show the number of cases in Croydon have increased.

According to the latest crime figures released by the Metropolitan Police, the number of reported incidents of domestic violence has risen by 15.2 per cent as from 968 to 1,115 from April to August, compared to the same period last year.

Last month Croydon Council announced it would increase funding by £60,000 to support victims of domestic abuse and would create forums where the relevant agencies could raise concerns and find solutions.

Councillor Toni Letts, who was herself a victim of domestic violence and has protested against budget cuts to the main domestic violence support centre in Croydon, the Family Justice Centre, said while she welcomed the council's efforts, victims needed more social support.

Coun Letts, who represents Fairfield ward, said: "I am not surprised by these figures, this is a very difficult time. I think there is an increase because of the economic downturn.

"There is a lack of social support, some women who are in violent relationships have such a limited access to social support. So what are these forums going to do for these women who are dealing with violence on a daily basis?"

The council said new work was going to be done with young people to ensure they realise domestic abuse is wrong.

Coun Letts added: "I do applaud the council for wanting to work within schools and colleges. We need to listen to the children and stop those children growing up around domestic violence to think it is just the way men are.

"We need more screening, it has got to become alright to ask questions and it has to be acceptable to ask children how they feel."

Some crimes in Croydon have seen a downward trend.

Statistics covering from last April to August, show gun crime in the borough has fallen by 21.6 percent, with 16 fewer incidents reported.

Robbery is down 0.6 percent from 782 last year to 777, while rape is down by 15.5 percent with 15 fewer rapes committed.

However, residential burglaries have seen an increase of 2.4 percent with 1,125 cases reported last year, compared to 1,152 and motor vehicle crime has seen a 1.5 percent increase, up from 1628 to 1652.