The Body Shop has launched the Stop Violence In The Home campaign
Shocking statistics reveal that one in three women who attempt suicide do so because they are being affected by domestic violence and an average of two women are killed every week as a result of domestic violence. 59% of women are more likely to confide in a friend if affected by domestic violence – look for the signs and you could save a friend’s life!
Natasha, 30 years old and an X-Factor contestant last year, met her partner in a bookshop in 2005. At first he seemed intellectual and a calm and loving person but soon she began to notice strange behaviour, such as stealing when they were shopping together, and that he became angry over minor things. This behaviour escalated and in the six months that they were together Natasha endured death threats, attempted strangulation, being thrown to the floor, pulled by the hair and verbal abuse. Finally he stabbed her in the leg with a knife whilst she was driving and tried to strangle her. He has since been convicted of witness intimidation, GBH, ABH and is still in prison having received a three and a half year sentence.
Natasha is one of the fortunate ones to have escaped the clutches of domestic violence but there are many women who are still suffering and going unnoticed.
The Body Shop has teamed up with Women’s Aid to launch the 2008 ‘Stop Violence in the Home’ campaign to increase awareness, raise funds for the national domestic violence charity and help put a stop to domestic violence.
They conducted an independent survey which revealed that 59% of women are more likely to confide in a friend, if affected by domestic violence. With this in mind, this year’s ‘Stop Violence In The Home’ campaign focuses on friendship and calls on all women to become empowered to make a stand against domestic violence; whether they are a victim or a friend.
Signs to look out for include someone becoming quieter or more withdrawn. Are you made to feel unwelcome or tense when her partner is around? Have you ever noticed cuts and bruises? Does she end phone calls or conversation suddenly when her partner appears or has she begun to see less of you and your friends?
If you are worried about a friend show your concern. Ask questions such as “You don’t look very happy, is everything OK at home?†This will give her the opportunity to open up and confide in you.
Be patient. Listen and don’t judge, it is up to her to make decisions in her own time. You must not be critical of her partner, this may make her feel ashamed and could prevent her from confiding in you again. You may lose contact with your friend for a while, leaving you feeling frustrated or angry but be patient.
You must also tell her the violence isn’t her fault. Remind her that violence is a choice and that her partner is the only one responsible for his behaviour. Being honest will help your friend realise that her relationship isn’t healthy. Remind her that domestic violence is against the law and the police have to investigate
Encourage your friend to seek immediate confidential help from the police or contact the National Domestic Violence Helpline (0808 2000 247)
Most importantly don’t give up on your friend. You could be her only lifeline. If you feel that she is in immediate danger call the Police.
The Body Shop is raising funds for Women’s Aid with the, ‘For You, For Me’ Shea Lip Care Stick Duo £7.00. With every Lip Care Duo sold £4.80 goes directly to Women’s Aid.
Jessica Watson – Female First