VICTIMS of domestic violence are being given the chance to get confidential advice – without the knowledge of their abusive partner.

The Take the Step website has been created by a partnership between Lancashire’s police and crime commissioner and Blackburn with Darwen Council.

MORE TOP STORIES:

Clive Grunshaw, who has been the commissioner for two years, launched the site last year, to ensure domestic abuse victims had access to a ‘one-stop-shop’ for help, support and information online.

The council has now agreed to put ‘one-click’ access to the site on each of its library computers.

Mr Grunshaw said: “For victims of domestic abuse, taking the step to seek help is a big one. It can be daunting, and the fear created by being in an abusive relationship can make victims afraid to look for help and support in case their partner checks their phone logs or internet history.

“That is why this partnership with Blackburn with Darwen Council is so important.

“I want victims and their family and friends to have a place they can access the information they need safely, without the worry of their internet history being traced. Library computers are free, and the ‘one-click’ access to Take the Step will make it easy for residents to find the information they need.

“Ultimately, as police and crime commissioner, I want our communities to make domestic abuse socially unacceptable and bring an end to this horrendous crime.

“But, until that happens, I want victims to be able to get the help they need and I hope this is a step toward ensuring that.”

Mr Grunshaw said the number of cases of domestic violence reported to Lancashire Police was increasing, but that the higher figures represented more people getting help.

He added: “It is a positive thing because it is recognition of the priority that Lancashire is giving to tackling domestic violence.

“We have got significant incidents of domestic violence in the region, but we do aim to work on that. We would seek to bring those incidents down in the longer term, but for now, it is all about encouraging more people to come forward.”

Coun Pat McFall, chairman of the domestic strategic board at the council, said: “Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council was awarded the White Ribbon status last November and this new library facility highlights the fact we are committed in making a stand against domestic violence.”

For more information, visit www.takethestep.co.uk