The Southend, Essex and Thurrock Domestic Abuse Partnership has been awarded funding of £450,000 over three years for a new Perpetrator Pathway service.
The service will direct people who have concerns about their behaviour to services and support which can help them – and will also offer help to family or friends who may be worried about a loved one suffering or at risk of domestic violence.
Chair of the Southend, Essex and Thurrock Domestic Abuse Board, Councillor Dick Madden, said:
“Any money we can put into driving down domestic abuse in the county is a welcomed addition.
“This extra funding will enable us to create a clear route for perpetrators to get the right help, which can help them to change their abusive behaviour.
“It will also give other concerned family, friends, professionals – or members of the public – a direct route so they can get advice and support, which we hope will make a real difference.”
The Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex, Jane Gardner, who sits on the Board, added:
“This is excellent news and I look forward to seeing the benefits of this additional funding.
“Breaking the cycle of domestic abuse is one of the objectives in the Police and Crime Plan – changing offenders' behaviour through robust change programmes is one way we can do this.
“We know that one in four perpetrators of domestic abuse are repeat offenders – intervening early and addressing their behaviour will help to keep people from harm.”
Thurrock Council’s Portfolio Holder for Adults and Children’s Social Care, Councillor Sue Little, also said:
“I'm really pleased to see the project starting to move forward on this important piece of work.
“Thurrock Council is absolutely committed to doing what we can to protect everybody from the dangers of domestic abuse.
“Although support is available for people affected by the harm domestic abuse causes, I’m very pleased we are working across organisations to offer support to individuals who recognise the dangers of their own behaviour before it escalates.”
It is anticipated the service will launch in late September 2017.
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.