A new strategy to tackle domestic abuse has been launched – and people are urged to give their opinions before it is finalised.
The draft strategy sets out how Cumberland Council, alongside the Cumberland Community Safety Partnership, will address domestic abuse in the area.
It looks at prevention – including educating youngsters to understand healthy relationships, raising awareness of the issue through campaigns and train staff and supporting victims – including making sure people are informed of pre-release arrangements if their abusers have been jailed; giving them a safe space to speak openly and work with health providers to make sure they spot the signs, ask the right questions and refer people to the correct organisations.
It also wants to pursue the abusers, by looking for funding for programmes that encourage abusers to recognise and change their behaviours and working with housing providers to provide accommodation and specialist support to abusers – helping them break the cycle of abuse.
A survey has been launched, with more details about the strategy and asking people if they agree with the priorities and if more should be added.
Cumberland Council’s portfolio holder for children’s services, family wellbeing and housing, Emma Williamson, said: “We think this is a strong draft strategy, but it’s important that everyone has a chance to input.
“This is an issue which touches lives everywhere, and we need to have the right priorities so we can collectively tackle domestic abuse at all levels and in all places.”
People have until March 31 to share their opinion. Click here to fill out the form.
