Rise in calls over domestic issues in Sark - report

The upcoming Domestic abuse law is being adapted for Sark

Sark constables have seen "a rise in the number of calls to domestic/family welfare issues" over the past year, they have said.

From 5 October 2023 to 4 October 2024, there were 12 incidents of domestic violence and 16 welfare checks which required their involvement.

The data comes from the latest constables' report outlining incidents which required investigation, mediation or assistance.

Constables said they were "actively seeking ways to be able to assist more in these types of issues".

They added it would be made easier with the upcoming domestic abuse law next year.

The report highlights the increase in the need for Guernsey police to assist Sark, which constables said was "unsustainable".

About 560 people live in Sark, according to the latest census

In the car-free island, road traffic complaints required the most constable involvement, with 40 incidents.

Some 150 tractors were issued licences alongside 13 carriages and 717 bicycles.

There were 19 air traffic incidents which related to low-flying aircraft.

It comes in the same year Sark has been investigating the possibility of charging for the use of the island's airspace.

Across the year, there have been nine times constables have needed to act on drink-related incidents.

They said they have undertaken "unscheduled patrols in the day" and have seen a drop in the need for intervention.