Housing Solicitors

Police in Wolverhampton have received thousands of reports of domestic violence, with almost 6,000 domestic violence incidents over the last year.

Local newspaper the Express and Star reports that an average of 16 incidents of domestic abuse were recorded each day across the city, nearly half of which occurred when children and/or pregnant women were present.

A report to Wolverhampton City Council’s children’s trust board states that of the 5,900 incidents of domestic violence reported in Wolverhampton, around 30% involved repeat offenders.

Of those, 598 of the cases were assessed as being high risk, with the potential to result in serious harm or death – of those cases, 728 children were involved.

However, only one in ten incidents of domestic violence is reported to police, according to the report.

Earlier in 2015, Wolverhampton City Council launched the Children, Young People and Families Plan, with a stated goal of reducing domestic violence – and last week the Big Lottery Fund pledged £48.5 million to fund additional support for women who are victims of domestic abuse and sexual exploitation.

Hayley Edwards – a spokeswoman for charity The Haven – said she had seen a rise in the severity of violence and abuse over the last year, as well as an increase in the number of families in poverty.

“You can safely say that domestic violence is a worrying issue that needs to be addressed,” said Ms Edwards.

“It is a major issue across the city – but what we need to consider is that this is the tip of the iceberg.

“There are still many who don’t report the abuse for a number of reasons – in some cases, it is culturally acceptable for domestic violence to take place amongst partners and family members.

“In other instances, incidents are not reported due to financial barriers or fear of repercussions.

“Women shouldn’t fear reporting domestic violence.”

Ms Edwards added that The Haven had been forced to refer some victims to other agencies, as a result of an insufficient number of places in its own accommodation for victims of domestic violence.

Wolverhampton Council’s cabinet member for children and families, Councillor Val Gibson, said:
“The figures are of great concern to the council and we have taken steps to try and limit the instances of domestic violence across the city.

“We know there are still lots of unreported cases and we are urging the victims of domestic violence to come forward,” she added.

Duncan Lewis Domestic Violence Solicitors

Duncan Lewis is a specialist firm of domestic violence solicitors able to advise victims of domestic violence on their rights under the law – and how to tackle domestic violence from a partner, family member, or child.

Duncan Lewis has offices nationwide and is a leading provider of Legal Aid services.

Duncan Lewis can advise on domestic violence and family law under UK law and Islamic law.

For expert and confidential legal help with domestic violence, call the Duncan Lewis Domestic Violence Solicitor’ Helpline on 07920 077054.