Postcards give domestic abuse holiday warning
Special postcards are being given to holiday parks, local attractions, historic properties and tourist information centres across Teignbridge this summer as part of a domestic abuse awareness campaign.
The postcards show images associated with the summer bearing the message ‘Domestic abuse doesn’t take a holiday!’ on one side with information about the signs of domestic abuse and helpline numbers on the other side.
South Devon and Dartmoor Community Safety Partnership are asking businesses in the tourism industry to put a supply of the postcards in reception areas or other suitable places. There are also stickers which can be displayed in toilets or changing rooms.
The aim is to raise awareness and tell visitors who may be suffering from domestic abuse where help and support can be found.
Mags Naylor, Chief Executive of the Domestic Violence and Abuse Service (DVAAS) in South and West Devon, said: “Sadly for those in abusive relationships a holiday does not always mean a break from violence and abuse. Sometimes it can even get worse. By making these postcards available tourism businesses will be helping to highlight the problem and making sure the key helpline numbers are available to those visitors who might need them.”
It follows a campaign last year, where caravan parks were asked to display posters with a similar message.
This summer, the campaign is being extended to include tourist attractions, National Trust properties and tourist information centres.
Cllr Sylvia Russell, Teignbridge District Council’s Executive Spokesperson for Health and Wellbeing, said: “Last year’s initiative did make a difference as the domestic abuse support services were contacted by some holidaymakers who had seen the posters and needed help. I really hope our local attractions and holiday parks get behind the campaign this summer and display the postcards and stickers.”
South Devon and Dartmoor Community Safety Partnership is made up of local councils, Devon and Cornwall Police and other local organisations who work together to make South Hams, Teignbridge and West Devon even safer places to live and visit.
Anyone worried about domestic abuse can call the Confidential Devon Helpline on 0345 155 1074, the National Domestic Abuse 24 hour Helpline on 0808 200 0247 or the Domestic Violence and Abuse Service’s Local Helpline for South Hams, Teignbridge and West Devon during office hours on 01626 365087.
