Bolton: Greater Manchester domestic abuse at a record high

Figures from the Office for National Statistics show 64,318 domestic abuse-related crimes were recorded by Greater Manchester Police in the year to March – up from 50,748 last year.

This means there were 22.4 domestic abuse offences per 1,000 people in the area last year.

The number of violent domestic abuse-related crimes in Greater Manchester also reached a record high last year, rising from 39,294 to 50,347.

Dr Gill Smallwood, chief executive of Bolton-based domestic abuse charity Fortalice says that these increases are reflected in the increased need for their services.

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She said: “During lockdown, some people who were suffering domestic abuse were trapped and since lockdown people have started to come forward more.

“We’re now also more open about issues like domestic abuse. It’s not as hidden as it once was.”

Dr Smallwood says that we need to broaden out discussions about domestic abuse in order to spread awareness.

She added: “We need to take it to the workplace, in the community and in education so more people are aware and can pick things up and help people.

Dr Gill Smallwood (Image: Fortalice)

“We can educate people on what to look out for. It can be subtle things.

“We go into schools and teach children about healthy relationships.

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“The more we talk about it the better it will get.”

Fortalice has a 24-hour phone line for anyone in need of help and advice, which Dr Smallwood encourages anyone who thinks they or someone they know may be a victim of domestic abuse.

However, it is not always easy to spot the signs, not is it easy to approach the subject with someone who might be showing the signs.

“People going through domestic abuse often get quiet and disengaged,” Dr Smallwood said. “It’s a gradual withdrawal.

“There are also the typical signs of physical abuse such as wearing makeup to cover bruises.

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"Gently talk to them in a quiet environment. Give somebody that safe arena, and by that, I mean not when you think there might be a perpetrator around so then everyone is safe.

“There are people out there. Our services are here.”

If someone is in immediate danger, the best advice is always to call 999.

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at lewis.finney@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @lewisfinney18.