Honour-based violence

Honour-based violence is a crime or incident which has or may have been committed to protect or defend the honour of the family and or community.

Honour-based violence is where a person is being punished by their family or community for actually or allegedly undermining what they believe to be the correct code of behaviour. By not conforming it may be perceived that the person may have brought shame or dishonour to the family.

This type of violence can be distinguished from other forms of violence, as it is often committed with some degree of approval and/or collusion from the family and/or community.

The Cheshire Constabulary take any report very seriously and have been working hard to raise awareness and tackle the issue.

There is a cross agency working group in place involving police, health, education, probation, domestic abuse partnerships and other key stake holders and working together we are making a real difference. For example, the force were one of the first to use the new protection from forced marriage legislation.

If you are suffering any form of abuse in relation to honour issues or forced marriage or you are aware of anyone you know being at risk please report it. All reports are treated with professionalism and compassion and we can work with other agencies to provide support.

If it is an emergency, please call 999.

Otherwise, please call the non-emergency number on 0845 458 0000