New help for victims of domestic abuse

AN initiative providing specialist and dedicated support to victims of domestic abuse is being rolled out across the county.
Police officers will work with Independent Domestic Violence Advocates (IDVAs) across Cheshire as part of a domestic abuse early intervention and victim support initiative for those suffering from abuse involving intimate partners.
The initiative involves a dedicated police officer and an IDVA jointly assessing the domestic abuse incidents that have been reported to police, and carrying out follow-up visits to each victim to provide specialist information, advice and support.
During these follow-up visits, a plain clothed officer and an IDVA will meet the victim face-to-face and provide a quick and supportive service, along with a better understanding of the process.
While police officers progress the investigation, the IDVA can provide a dedicated service to the victim, not only supporting them emotionally but also helping them keep safe and secure and gain financial independence.
Victims who have already been visited by a police officer and IDVA have described the initiative as a supportive service, wikth a quicker response and looking at the victim’s best interests.
One said: “Because of the situation I was in they’ve actually helped me restart my life again in a different area. It’s nice to be able to go out and nobody know me or know the gossip and to know that I can feel safe walking about.”
The scheme will initially run county-wide for the next nine months. The service will run during the weekend and on Monday day shifts – often the peak periods for reported domestic abuse incidents.
Detective Chief Inspector Gareth Lee, Cheshire Police’s lead for domestic abuse, said: “The pilot scheme has been extremely effective having already helped dozens of victims and I’m pleased it is going to be rolled out to other victims across Cheshire to enable them to receive the same dedicated support.
“Working alongside IDVAs has been imperative in helping us to engage more with victims, giving them the confidence to open up to officers while at the same time being given specialist and ongoing support.
“Our commitment in protecting victims of domestic abuse is paramount and I want to reach out to those who need our help and support. We are here for you, please make contact with us.”
Warrington Borough Council’s lead member for statutory health and adult social care, Cllr Pat Wright said: “It’s vital that victims of domestic abuse are given fast, effective support, so it’s great news that this scheme is being introduced to Warrington and the wider sub-region.
“I’m hopeful that the scheme – with its focus on effective partnership working – will bring real benefits to victims, by providing a comprehensive and flexible service, which fully responds to their needs.”
Aanyone who is a victim of domestic abuse should contact Cheshire Police on 101 or, in an emergency ring 999. Anyone who wants to get in touch with a specialist service please contact the national 24/7 Helpline on 0808 2000 247.