POLICE chiefs say a surge in people reporting domestic abuse suggests that fewer victims are prepared to suffer in silence.

In recent years, the Cumbrian force has seen a steady rise in the number of people reporting such abuse. In the month of August alone, over the last four years, Cumbria Constabulary received a total of 2,530 reports of domestic abuse, according to new figures.

In August 2011, there were 548, compared to 648 incidents in the same month last year. Even so, temporary Detective Inspector Ralph Henderson believes such crimes are still under-reported, and he urged victims to get in touch.

The officer, speaking as the force launched a fresh initiative to reach out to victims, said: “There is a perception that domestic abuse is violence, but it is not just physical. Domestic abuse can be emotional, verbal, financial or harassing behaviour. It affects not only partners but everyone within the family.

“Domestic abuse is under-reported, but every year we are seeing more people having the confidence to pick up the phone and report abusive incidents.

“Cumbria Constabulary have experienced and specially trained officers who will deal with any report in a sensitive and professional manner.

“Police work with partner agencies all year round to support families who live in fear and to encourage them to make contact. There are a number of ways in which victims can get help, for example through agencies such as Let Go and Safe Lives.

“I would like to speak directly to those who are victims of abuse to come forward and report it, don’t suffer in silence, help and support is available. Nobody deserves to be subjected to abusive behaviour, it is never the victim’s fault.

“I would also like to state that Cumbria Constabulary has a conviction rate well above the national average for those who commit domestic abuse. To those who abuse their loved ones, there is no justification or excuse for your actions and we will endeavour to bring you to justice.”

Police and crime commissioner, Richard Rhodes, said: “I would urge anyone affected by domestic violence to heed police advice and have the courage and confidence to come forward.

“Only by reporting this terrible crime and seeking the support they need – either from the police or the other agencies – can victims begin to rebuild their lives.

“Tackling domestic violence is a key priority of mine, and I am working with the police and other agencies to build on and improve the support systems that will make a real difference. There are a number of programmes which I am supporting within the county such as Turning the Spotlight and Step Up. Turning the Spotlight provides wrap around support for whole families.

“The focus of the Step Up programme is to work with adolescents who are violent towards family members and teach skills for respectful, non-violent family relationships and safety in the home.”