Hart District Council has raised a flag in support of a campaign to help young people recognise the signs of an unhealthy relationship.

Hart District Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Contracts and Community Safety, Cllr James Radley, raised a flag at the Hart District Council offices in Fleet on Wednesday 27 June, to support the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Youth Commission #RaiseaFlag campaign.

PCC Commissioner Michael Lane launched his Youth Commission’s campaign at the joint Police and Fire Headquarters in Eastleigh last week.

Research has shown that incidents of domestic abuse rise during England football games during the World Cup*. Throughout the tournament, the campaign flag will be raised on flagpoles across the Hampshire policing area to draw attention to the issue of unhealthy relationships.

Cllr Radley said: “We are supporting the #RaiseaFlag campaign because we want anyone who is in a relationship that leaves them feeling uncomfortable, sad or afraid to be able to recognise the red flags of an unhealthy relationship and to access the help they need.”

“In an unhealthy relationship there is often one person who wants to control the other, this can be through physical, verbal or emotional harm. If you are concerned that you or someone you care about is in an unhealthy relationship – Raise a Flag – tell someone, seek help.”

Some red flags that your relationship could be unhealthy are, if the other person:

• Makes you feel bad about yourself.
• Ridicules you and calls you names.
• Tells you how to dress, think and feel.
• Controls who you talk to.
• Checks your texts, emails and social media.
• Will not compromise.
• Threatens, hits or physically hurts you.

Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Michael Lane, said: “It is sad that major sports competitions like the World Cup can cause a rise in domestic abuse, but the evidence indicates we should be prepared.

“I hope that the #RaiseaFlag campaign will encourage people to be alert to the signs of domestic abuse and unhealthy relationships in their communities.”

Anyone who has been affected by domestic abuse, or any crime, can contact the Victim Care Service on 0808 178 1641. The Victim Care Service has specialist caseworkers providing tailored support for victims of domestic abuse.

More information on the support available can be found on the Youth Commission’s campaign page https://www.hampshire-pcc.gov.uk/flag.