PEOPLE across West Yorkshire are being encouraged to report suspected domestic abuse to the police if they believe someone they know might be suffering.   

Anyone can report suspicions about domestic abuse and potentially help change the lives of people around them, according to West Yorkshire Police. 

Detective Superintendent Paula Bickerdike, head of West Yorkshire Police's Safeguarding Governance, said: "Tackling and reducing domestic abuse continues to be a key priority for West Yorkshire Police - however, we cannot do it alone.  

"We work closely with partners to maximise the way in which we can support victims of these often-hidden offences.   

"That is why reporting any suspicions you may have about people you know who could be a victim is so important.  

"The sooner we know about it, the sooner we can help.  

"If your concerns turn out to be unfounded, don't worry – better we investigate and have an opportunity to make people safer.  

"Your call could make a real difference.  

"We have specially-trained officers working across the force in our specialist safeguarding units who take all reports seriously, deal with them sensitively and do everything possible to safeguard those who are vulnerable."

Contact police on 101 or via the force's website. If there is a threat to life, call 999.