The number of domestic abuse cases is alarming in itself.
But those reported are only the tip of the iceberg.
So much of what goes on behind closed doors remains hidden from view.
Results from the Northern Ireland Life & Times Survey 2023 show that only 63% of people would be “very likely” to report being the victim of domestic abuse to police.
That makes it the crime people are least likely to report.
And this is in a hypothetical situation.
When faced with domestic abuse in reality, the percentage is almost certain to be well below that figure.
Despite high-profile cases that have shocked many, despite the promises that protection is there for those who come forward, significant challenges remain when it comes to support for victims.
It is those challenges the Department of Justice has not been able to address so far.
Making victims a priority is not something we do well.
We have seen it in the way the legacy of the Troubles has been handled, with no sense of justice — even after all these years — for those who were directly affected, or who lost loved ones.
Many victims of domestic abuse are also left on their own, choosing between the fear of living with that and the fear of what will happen if they speak out.
Victims need to know, if they do come forward, they will be protected and those responsible will face the full force of the justice system.
Until that happens, the reality is far too many people will continue to suffer in silence.
There needs to be a concerted effort to provide the right support for those caught in the cycle of sexual abuse and violence.
The message is there for those with the power to effect positive change.
“More than anything, we need a criminal justice system where all victims of all crimes can feel assured that, when they come forward, they will be supported and their rights under the Victims Charter will be protected,” Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime Geraldine Hanna said.
That a watchdog is in place to aid the process of effecting change is a good thing.
Hearing her words is the first step.
Actually listening and acting on them is a step that hasn’t yet been taken.
Until that happens, nothing will change. And, in the years ahead, we will still be lamenting the lack of support for those who suffer day and daily from domestic abuse.