NOT everyone will take England's recent World Cup defeat in good grace; for some people the emotions spill over into domestic abuse – often fuelled by alcohol.

There’s no excuse for it though and West Mercia Police is urging victims and witnesses to blow the whistle on domestic abuse.

In partnership with other agencies, we want to encourage those who suffer domestic abuse not to tolerate it and to report incidents to the police.

This abuse can take many forms. Violence may be the most obvious but it also includes emotional, psychological and financial.

Domestic abuse is a serious crime that should not and will not be tolerated. It must be made clear to offenders that there is no justification for it under any circumstances.

Domestic violence and abuse affects families, it affects victims who suffer harm and it can have a devastating effect on the lives of children exposed to the abuse. West Mercia Police will do everything it can to make arrests and bring offenders to justice. All officers are trained to deal with domestic abuse and there are also specialist officers who provide specific assistance when required.

Nobody needs to suffer in silence – help is available. We work closely with our partners to provide support for victims, encourage them to report abuse and effectively prosecute offenders.

Taking the step to report domestic abuse can be very difficult but there is support out there. No one need be a silent victim.

If you, or somebody you know, needs confidential help or advice, blow the whistle on domestic abuse and call the police on 0300 333 3000 or West Mercia Women’s Aid Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0800 980 3331. In an emergency dial 999.

Inspector Paul Crowley Kidderminster Police