Shropshire legal firm sets up domestic abuse helpline
A domestic violence trauma line is being run by a Shropshire legal firm over the Christmas and New Year period.
Wace Morgan Solicitors, which has offices in Shrewsbury and Newtown, is offering the service to people at risk.
Emma Kenvyn, an executive who specialises in family issues, said incidents of domestic violence usually increase at this time of year.
She said: “I have focused on this area of work for many years and this is always my busiest period. Sadly, the number of divorces, separations and domestic incidents go up due to additional financial and employment pressures."
She will be staffing the Wace Morgan helpline on 07823777774 on a 24/7 basis to offer legal advice to domestic violence sufferers.
However, she emphasises that anyone in immediate risk should call 999.
Encourage
“Too often domestic violence is seen as a taboo subject," she added.
"It is hidden away and the victims do not report it. However, the grim truth is that two women are killed every week by a current or former male partner and one in six males are also the victims of domestic violence.
"We want to encourage people to break their silence and seek help. It’s a stressful time of the year for families and we are here to help."
Wace Morgan staff have also been collecting for The Refuge women's and children’s shelter in Shropshire, which is in particular need of children’s toiletries, small games, toys and clothing, ladies’ toiletries gloves scarves and books.
All proceeds from the firm’s Christmas bake off were also donated to The Refuge and the company’s efforts follow on from the national campaign ‘16 Days of Action against Domestic Violence’.
