A senior police figure in Newry says tackling violence against women and domestic abuse in all its forms remains a top priority for the PSNI.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Superintendent Norman Haslett was responding to a report that police stations – including Ardmore – more like “conflict barracks” and “women and girls have to speak publicly in front of other people (at the station desk) to say what the issue is because there is no privacy”.
However, SI Haslett, urging all victims to come forward, said: “I can confirm that there are facilities at Ardmore Police Station, including a private consultation room, that ensures that all reports of domestic violence can be made in private and in the strictest of confidence.
“We also work with our partners to create safe places in our communities for victims to reach out for help.
“For example, our One Stop Shop joint initiative with Women’s Aid NI offers a drop-in service to women and girls at Newry Library. It provides a safe welcoming space for women and girls who may be themselves, or know someone who is, experiencing physical, emotional, financial or sexual abuse or coercive control.
“They will also be provided with free, immediate and confidential access to legal, benefits, safety and housing advice, plus other Women’s Aid services.
“If you’re experiencing domestic abuse or any other type of abuse or intimidation, or are concerned for someone who is, please report it to us by calling 101.
“If you have any reason to think someone is in immediate danger, or your life may be at risk, call 999.”
A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport.
One Stop Shop initiatives are being held in Newry library on Thursday, December 5th and Thursday, January 9th from 10am to 12.00pm. For more information visit One Stop Shop | Police Service of Northern Ireland (psni.police.uk) https://www.psni.police.uk/safety-and-support/keeping-safe/domestic-abuse/one-stop-shop
