Cumbria County Council and Cumbria police are joining forces to help those who are at risk of domestic abuse.

A new campaign will launch this week to encourage victims, or people who are concerned about their friends, family or neighbours to report incidents to Cumbria Constabulary.

To report abuse call 101 or report it online at www.cumbria.police.uk. If you are in immediate danger, always call 999 and ask for the police.

Councillor Deborah Earl, cabinet member for public health and community services, said: "As the government’s lockdown measures are eased it is important people who may have been suffering at home, come forward and seek help.

“I would encourage anyone, males or females, who are worried to contact the police. Anyone who is a victim of domestic abuse will get the help they need to keep them safe.”

Detective Superintendent, David Pattinson, of Cumbria police, said: "It is very much business as usual for Cumbria Police, and domestic abuse is a top priority for us. We have been working alongside our partner agencies to really push the message that victims of domestic abuse should not suffer in silence, we are here to support you and there are many local services that specialise in helping victims and their families, so please get in touch.

“I would also like to continue to ask the public to keep an eye out for any signs that someone they know may be suffering from abuse and to report this to us. We are continuously looking at ways in which we can engage with the public to raise awareness, and this countywide campaign is another step forward in the fight against domestic abuse."

Cumbria police and safeguarding partners are also holding online domestic abuse surgeries on the police's Facebook and Instagram pages, every Monday and Wednesday between 11am and 1pm.

These live chat events make it easy for people to ask questions and seek advice, questions can also be asked anonymously.

Friends, family, neighbours and community members can be a vital lifeline to those living with domestic abuse. If anyone is worried that someone they know may be a victim of domestic abuse, reassure them that the police and support services are here to help and direct them to sources of support.

Find out more at www.cumbria.police.uk and always report it.