New domestic abuse service across Hampshire supports the whole family

A domestic abuse support service aimed at victims, their children and those who are being abusive launches on 4 June 2019, providing crisis accommodation and community-based support to break the cycle of abuse for families across Hampshire.

The Hampshire Domestic Abuse Service provided by Stop Domestic Abuse and The Hampton Trust, is funded by Hampshire County Council and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner. Southampton City Council also funds the part of the service aimed at changing the behaviour of people who are being abusive.

Councillor Judith Grajeswki, Executive Member for Public Health at Hampshire County Council, said, “Hampshire Domestic Abuse Service will provide a single point of contact for all people affected by domestic abuse, with an advice line, information and referrals to appropriate services. It’s important to support the whole family – men, women and children – and also to help those using abusive behaviour to change in order to build better futures.”

Police and Crime Commissioner, Michael Lane, said: “Every day Hampshire Constabulary deals with around 95 domestic abuse related incidents. The impact of domestic abuse, even when those who have experienced it have achieved safety, can be wide reaching, severe and long lasting. Our continued collaboration to provide services that support victims and help keep them safe, alongside interventions with perpetrators, is essential to breaking the cycle of abuse.”

Help for victims is provided by Stop Domestic Abuse (previously known as Southern Domestic Abuse Service or SDAS) which offers confidential support for women, children, young people and men who experience emotional, physical or sexual abuse, as well as refuge accommodation and outreach work. The service also focuses on early intervention and prevention to prevent escalation and repeat incidents of abuse. CEO, Claire Lambon, said, “People affected by domestic abuse have a wide range of support needs and this service will tailor support packages to individual need. The skills, enthusiasm and dedication of the team enable victims and survivors to move on and live their lives free from domestic abuse.”

An important part of the integrated approach is the support on offer to adults and young people who are using abusive behaviour, which will be provided by The Hampton Trust. Chantal Hughes, Chief Executive of The Hampton Trust, said, “We carry out innovative work to help perpetrators of abuse address the root cause of their behaviour to make positive changes.”
Both organisations also provide training and resources for professionals working in the field of domestic abuse.

The Hampshire Domestic Abuse Service Advice Line can be reached 24 hours, 365 days a year on 03300 165 112.