Family Solicitors

A multi-agency forum in Wiltshire, which has helped more than 4,000 victims or potential victims of domestic abuse, has marked ten years of dedicated support.

The Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC) focuses on ensuring the safety of high-risk victims of domestic abuse.

Each MARAC is attended by a host of key agencies, including statutory, non-statutory and community sector organisations such as Wiltshire Police, NHS Wiltshire, probation, housing agencies, Wiltshire Domestic Abuse Service and Wiltshire Council.

Wiltshire MARAC provides a forum for sharing information and taking action to reduce harm to victims and their children who live in the county.

The council says that, since the group started, MARAC has helped 4,063 high-risk victims, including a total of 5,815 children within high-risk families.

Wiltshire Council Cabinet Member for adult social care, Jerry Wickham, said:

“Over the past ten years, the MARAC has been fundamental in ensuring the provision of vital support to very vulnerable – and often scared – people, who find themselves in a desperate situation.

”Key working relationships have been fostered over this time – and the agencies work together with compassion and commitment to help those who are at greatest risk of harm.

”It's nice to take a moment to reflect on what we have achieved over the last decade – but our main focus as always is to look forward and ensure those who need our support continue to get it as quickly as possible.

”Domestic abuse of any kind is a despicable crime, but we hope people are reassured that there is support available and we'll do all we can to help.”

Police and crime commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, Angus Macpherson, added:

“I am very impressed with the work that the MARAC has done over the years to co-ordinate support for people who are living with the impact of domestic abuse.

"We need to continue to provide the best service possible to the most vulnerable and high-risk victims in our communities.

”I want to congratulate all partners for the work that they have done – and continue to do – to protect people from harm.”

Duncan Lewis Family Solicitors

Duncan Lewis Family Solicitors can advise victims of domestic abuse on how to tackle the issues within the law, including advising on controlling or coercive behaviour, domestic abuse between partners or spouses or same sex partners, child-parent domestic abuse, elder abuse, domestic abuse between friends or flatmates, and financial abuse.

Duncan Lewis is also able to advise on FGM, forced marriage, honour crimes and dowry disputes – and advises on family law under the laws of England and Wales and Islamic law.

For expert legal advice on tackling domestic abuse, call Duncan Lewis domestic violence solicitors in confidence on 0333 772 0409.

For urgent legal help with a domestic violence matter, call the Duncan Lewis Solicitors 24-Hour Emergency Helpline on 0333 772 0607, where a family lawyer is available 24/7.