New analysis by the NSPCC of police recorded crime data reveals the number of crimes with an element of child sexual exploitation in the South West has almost tripled within the last year.
During 2021/22, a total of 3,866 crimes were recorded by Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Devon and Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset Police forces, compared to 1,383 offences in 2020/21*
South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) is reminding the public to respect its people when calling 999 for an ambulance this winter. Figures from the Trust indicate abuse against its 999 call handlers has more than doubled since the beginning of the full UK lockdown in March. Control room staff reported 77 verbal abuse incidents from callers between 23 March and 23...
Plymouth Domestic Abuse Services (PDAS) is expected to see a boost in fundraising after being named one of Drake Circus shopping centre’s four chosen charities for 2020-2021.
The Sanctuary Supported Living service, operated by PDAS, offers a wide range of help to individuals and families in the Plymouth area, including confidential advice, one-to-one and group support sessions, safe...
Suggestions that there will be a surge in domestic violence in the region as families self-isolate and schools face long closures has prompted a response from The Family Law Company.
Director Jane Chanot who is part of the Children, Child Abduction and Domestic Violence Team, says “I have real concerns that we’ll see an increase in situations where families are kept inside together...
Devon and Cornwall Police’s latest domestic abuse campaign warns both residents and visitors to our region that domestic abuse doesn’t stop, even on holiday.
Incidences of domestic abuse increase during the summer months. While a holiday or break from work may offer respite to many, sadly this may not be the case for people in an abusive relationship.
Devon’s campaign against domestic violence and abuse has made significant progress over the past year. But, says the Devon-based Splitz Devon Domestic Abuse Support Service (DDASS), the battle is far from won.
“We constantly need to review what and how we do things in order to meet the challenges ahead,” said Devon Service Manager, Chrissy Stower. “We are a long way from ending...
The Christmas party season is almost upon us and police are encouraging anyone attending festivities to stay in control and know their limits when it comes to alcohol.
Work parties, festive drinks and family celebrations are all part of the Christmas fun but sadly alcohol-related incidents such as domestic abuse, assault, criminal damage, rape and antisocial behaviour increase during...
A married couple have been jailed for a string historic sexual offences dating back to the 1980s.
David Williams sentenced to life in prison, and wife Pauline Williams jailed for 12 years plus four years extended license today (Wednesday 25th November), following trial at Exeter Crown Court in October.
David and Pauline Williams have been convicted on a number of charges...
It’s easy to assume that domestic abuse is an issue that only affects partners or ex-partners within a relationship. However, an increasingly more common form of abuse, with potentially devastating results, is set to challenge those inherent beliefs.
Since 2011, in Devon alone, there have been two domestic homicide cases where the murderer is in fact the victim’s child. The child in...
