Staffordshire Police has shared one victim's story as part of their domestic abuse campaign.

The 'change the story' campaign is focussed on preventing and protecting people from the impact of domestic abuse.

By sharing the experiences of victims, the police force hopes to raise awareness of the types of behaviours associated with domestic abuse and encourage people to reach out for support.

A spokesperson for Staffordshire Police said: "Though their stories are anonymous, they show similar patterns of abuse, coercive and controlling behaviour as well as physical violence.

"It is hoped that, by sharing these stories, anyone who recognises these types of behaviours in themselves or loved ones may feel ready to reach out for support."

The survivor's story

Staffordshire Police has shared the story of one survivor, a woman, who had been in a relationship with the offender, a man, for some time.

The relationship had previously ended due to reported domestic abuse, but they rekindled their relationship and then spent a couple of weeks together.

When the victim said she wanted to return home, the offender grabbed her hair and slammed her head against the front door, knocking her unconscious.

The next day, she woke up to find her mobile phone had been taken without her consent.

The offender then followed her throughout the house, including the bathroom, to make sure she wouldn't leave. He also locked the doors and removed keys.

The perpetrator refused to give the victim access to medical treatment, despite her severe facial injuries, and would only let her leave if he drove her.

The spokesperson for Staffordshire Police said: "The survivor reported the abuse to us as soon as she was able to, and we took immediate action."

After he was arrested, the offender said the victim's injuries were caused by a fall and blamed her for what had happened.

He said she could have left at any time and that her phone disappeared after the victim had been messaging family members. He claimed the victim made-up the abuse despite her extensive injuries.

However, despite his initial denials, he went on to admit assault occasioning actual bodily harm and breach of a restraining order in court and was jailed for two-and-a-half years.

Superintendent Dave Kelsall, head of our adult public protection unit and lead for domestic abuse, said: "This case is a stark reminder of how abusers often use victim blaming and denial to avoid taking responsibility for their actions.

"These tactics are often used to silence victims and make them doubt themselves.

"I'm pleased that this offender has been held accountable and that justice was served in a custodial sentence. My hope is that the survivor has been able to find safety and begin rebuilding her life.

"By sharing this story, we want others to know that help is out there, and you do not have to suffer in silence.

"If you recognise these behaviours whether in yourself or someone you care about, please reach out. There is support available, and you are not alone."

Where to find support

Staffordshire Police is partnered with New Era, a holistic domestic abuse service, which operates across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent to provide support to victims and their families as well as treatment and behaviour change pathways for perpetrators.

Staffordshire Police explained that the service, commissioned by the Staffordshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, has supported more than 10,000 adult victims of domestic abuse and over 2,000 children since October 2023.

New Era's behaviour change service also helps those who wish to change their abusive behaviour, and has worked with over 700 adults and more than 260 children in the last two years.

A spokesperson for New Era said: "Our message to anyone experiencing domestic abuse is simple: you are not alone, and help is always available.

"New Era aims to end relationship abuse through a wide range of individual and group support for adults, children and young people for as long as they need it.

"Our specialist services are available 24/7, including throughout the Christmas and New Year period.

"Equally, if you are worried about your own abusive behaviour, the Behaviour Change Service is open throughout the year, between 9am and 5pm – except for Bank Holidays."

For more information on the services available, visit the Staffordshire Police website here or for more information on New Era, visit the New Era website here.