POLICE in Cumbria have vowed to continue to tackle violence against women ahead of a national campaign. 

Tomorrow is White Ribbon Day, which ties in with the International Day for the elimination of Violence Against Women, an event which encourages everyone to take a stand against violence towards women.

Detective Chief Inspector Doug Marshall of the Public Protection Unit said: “All kind of violence is unacceptable and there is never a justifiable reason for physical or verbal abuse. We will not tolerate it in Cumbria.

“We do our upmost to protect women and girls in the county and to eliminate violence against them, which can take numerous forms including domestic and so-called ‘honour-based violence’.

"These are very serious crimes that can have chronic physical and psychological health implications – not only for the victim, but also for children or wider family members.

“We know that such incidents are under-reported so are using this opportunity to encourage women and girls, and indeed any victim or witness, to have the confidence to report incidents so that we can help.

“Victims of violence can be reassured that we have dedicated specialists and investigators within our Public Protection Units, and all reports will be dealt with sensitively and professionally – contact us with confidence by calling 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Cumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Richard Rhodes added: “I would urge anyone affected by violence to heed the police advice and have the courage and confidence to come forward – please don’t suffer in silence.

"Tackling violence against woman and girls 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. For example, The Bridgeway is opening shortly and will provide consistent support within the county for victims of sexual assault and rape. It is only by us all working together that we can keep Cumbria safe."