A TARGETED Facebook advertising campaign which aims to make victims and potential victims of domestic abuse aware of the specialist advice services available to them has been launched to coincide with Sunday’s Old Firm match.
Says a Shelter Scotland spokesperson: “In the past, Strathclyde Police has conducted pre-emptive activity aimed at reducing the levels of domestic violence due to the spike in reported incidents around such big football matches.
“Shelter Scotland services that support people in these circumstances are available all year round and this campaign will run for the next two months.”
Alison Watson, head of Services at Shelter Scotland, says: “This Facebook campaign aims to ensure that anyone who faces the threat of domestic violence this weekend knows that Shelter Scotland has a number of expert services aimed at providing practical advice to help them.
“Over 70 per cent of the women who use our specialist housing services have experienced violence or abuse in their homes.
“We know many women trapped in an abusive relationship fear losing their home if they stand up to their partner. That is why we are using Facebook to make more people aware that there is always somewhere to turn for help.
“With Strathclyde Police reporting a 41 per cent rise in domestic violence levels around Old Firm matches, this is no game for those who fear or suffer abuse on the back of a football result.
“Anyone concerned about domestic abuse either personally or they know someone in danger, should seek advice or point others towards advice as soon as possible.
Help is available from the Get Advice section on our web site – www.shelter.org.uk and our helpline 0808 800 4444.”
The adverts and advice can be accessed at www.facebook.com/shelterinscotland
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Notes to Editors:
1. Shelter Scotland, the housing and homelessness charity. Shelter Scotland believes that everyone should have a home. We help people find and keep a home. We campaign for decent housing for all.
2. Spokespeople are available for interview, telephone the media office on 0844 515 2442. An ISDN line number is available for broadcast interviews.
3. For more information about Shelter Scotland visit www.shelter.org.uk
4. Follow Shelter Scotland on Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/shelterinscotland
Twitter – http://twitter.com/shelterscotland
MEDIA RELEASE posted by Shelter Scotland. You too can post media releases (aka press releases) on allmediascotland.com. For more information, email here.
Contact: Neil Baldwin
Phone: 0844 515 2442
Website: http://www.shelter.org.uk
