Blow the whistle on domestic abuse

With the rugby autumn international season now upon us, the Safer Caerphilly Community Safety Partnership is encouraging people suffering domestic abuse to seek help from the support services available in Caerphilly county borough.

39% of domestic abuse involves alcohol, and research also suggests that during major sporting events incidents of domestic abuse increase because people are drinking more.

The playing and broadcasting of rugby matches do not in themselves cause people to be more violent, however what is known is that rugby matches, coupled with an increase in alcohol consumption can provide triggers for violent behaviour in the home.

The Safer Caerphilly Multi Agency Centre (MAC) is a one-stop-shop for victims of domestic abuse and their families, and is there to offer help and support. The centre provides professional support from a range of agencies, all under one roof.

The aim of the centre is to minimise the number of different agencies that victims of domestic abuse and their families need to get in contact with to seek the help they need.

The key partners involved in the operation of the MAC include the Safer Caerphilly Community Safety Partnership's statutory bodies including Caerphilly County Borough Council, Gwent Police, Aneurin Bevan Health Board, Caerphilly Women's Aid, BAWSO, Victim Support and Gwent Alcohol Project (GAP).

Cabinet member for the environment, Cllr Lyn Ackerman said, "I really cannot stress enough how much of a positive difference the Safer Caerphilly MAC has made to so many victims of domestic abuse and their families. I would urge anyone who is reading this and who is suffering domestic abuse to seek help – there are people that can help you and your family, so please do not suffer in silence."

If you or someone you know is affected by domestic abuse please call the All Wales Domestic Abuse 24 hour free phone helpline on 0808 8010 800 or the Safer Caerphilly MAC on 01443 819 317 (during office hours).

In an emergency, dial 999.