Emma Marshall speaks about experience of domestic abuse

County councillor Emma Marshall is calling on the government to continue funding domestic abuse support services.

She said she hopes her experience can help others get out of abusive relationships and get help.

At a full council meeting last week, the Arrow Valley West councillor said: “Survivors of domestic abuse are everywhere and you might not even realise it.

FAMILY: Cllr Marshall said she has found happiness with husband Chris Marshall, who she married in 2016 (Image: Emma Marshall)

“Anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse regardless of their gender, their age, ethnicity, religion, socio-economic status, sexuality, intelligence or background.

“And you, most likely, know someone who has been a victim without even realising it.

“Domestic abuse can have a significant impact on a person’s emotional wellbeing as well as sometimes other relationships and the ability to just live life as you want to.

“Everyone reacts differently but some of the effects include depression, fear, anxiety and panic attacks. And recovery from domestic abuse can take years, with many people suffering from PTSD.

“Support services during this time are essential. And let’s not forget couples with children, who are also victims in their very own right, even if they experienced no violence personally.

“Children are particularly important as they are often used as a form of control once the abusive relationship has ended.

“So I implore the government to commit to funding this essential service in Worcestershire. And I ask all of the Worcestershire MPs to lobby on behalf of the victims.

“As elected members, we are the voice of those people. And I say this not just as a councillor, but as one of those victims.”

David Ross, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “In Worcestershire, an estimated 22,000 residents are affected by domestic abuse each year.

“In 2023/24, [there were] 8,842 contacts to the helpline of West Mercia Women’s Aid and 10,631 recorded incidents of domestic abuse in Worcestershire.

“These statistics are shocking in themselves but it is estimated that victims experience 50 incidents of domestic abuse before asking for help.”

He said the future of domestic abuse support in Worcestershire is under threat.

The county council has received more than £1 million in government grants each year since 2021 to fund domestic abuse and is lobbying ministers to continue that funding.

The county council has details of how to access domestic abuse support services on its website.