Domestic violence grows at Christmas

Charities and organisations funded by the Office of the Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner to support survivors of domestic violence have just returned their half time reports.

Our homes should be warm and safe places. For too many, it is far from that. Domestic violence, physical or mental, is a terrible crime.

It grows around Christmas‎ and rose massively in "lockdown one". I fear it will be rising again now.

Domestic violence suffers not only fear their abusers but also the stigma and isolation that results from the abuse.

Police officers, social workers, charities, employers, family and friends all have important parts to play in encouraging and supporting survivors of domestic violence to report it and start their journey to new and happier lives‎.

Liz Webster

Prospective Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner

Loneliness of a winter lockdown for elderly

Like most individual human beings I went through the last lockdown with hope in my heart .

That word lockdown, infuriates me as a member of the human race. The film Born Free comes to mind regardless of natures harsh consequences.

We are all, be it insects , animals or humans , plants in their multitude. Passing through this dimension.With no choice regarding our inevitable demise.

My point. I suffered this disgraceful draconian act on my freedom of choice from a democratic elected government with faith in their prognosis of a pandemic during the summer months. Now a complete shambles and a panic endemic.

On a more personal matter. Now that their fiasco of ineptitude of rule has been clearly exposed. I am finding it very hard to suffer this lack of social communication in pubs and clubs during the dark British winter months. I suspect I am not alone regarding that personal opinion.

My little rehomed spaniel Lady on my knee gives me hope for the future.

God Bless you all

Bill Williams.

Merlin Way

Covingham

Covid could be reason for hip op delay

I always enjoy letters from Steve Rouse and his latest missive was no exception.

However, I have to take issue with his claim that it was under a Labour Government seven years ago that he had a hip replacement.

The Conservative Government of David Cameron came to power in 2010, it therefore follows that Steve must have been a recipient of his hip in that period.

As for having to wait longer than seven months for his next operation, doesn't he think that Covid may well be a principle reason for the delay?

Kind regards

Des Morgan

Caraway Drive

Swindon