Message from Paula Hardy, Strategic Lead - Vulnerability & Victims for the South Wales Police & Crime Commissioner:

“Today, on Karma Nirvana Day of Memory, we pause to remember those who have sadly lost their lives as a result of honour-based abuse.

“It is clear to us that we will only end this type of violence and abuse if we work together, ensuring that our collective response is both swift, effective and built from listening to the experiences of victims and survivors.

“Survivors tell us how the emotional and physical abuse of honour crimes can quickly escalate to significant risks, disownment and in some instances, the loss of life – which is why early intervention and ongoing support is critical, even more so at a time of increased isolation.

“In October 2019 we launched our ‘Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls: Joint Strategy 2019/24’, where we reiterated our unwavering commitment to working with our partners to better understand the links between vulnerability, the protected characteristics under the Equalities Act and Violence against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence. In turn, we acknowledged how this will help us to ensure that professionals are able to recognise those at risk of Forced Marriage, Honour Based Abuse and Female Genital Mutilation and feel confident to take safeguarding action to protect and support these individuals.”

“Everyone has the right to be free to live the life that they want, and to feel safe - there is never an excuse for abuse. We are committed to doing even more to raise awareness of honour-based abuse and forced marriage across the communities of South Wales, as this is critical to prevention.”

If you, or someone you know is frightened, help is always available - South Wales Police and partner agencies can protect vulnerable people from these crimes:

BAWSO:

• Tel: 0800 731 8147

Henna Foundation:

• Tel: 029 20 496 920
• Email: info@hennafoundation.org

Byw heb Ofn / Live Fear Free:

• Tel: 0808 80 10 800
• Text: 07860 077 333
• Email: info@livefearfreehelpline.wales
• Live chat gov.wales/livefearfree

If you would like to speak to the police please call 101. If you are immediate danger always dial 999.

For silent help dial 999 and then press 55.