Domestic violence victims to get more support in Blackpool

The action plan builds on previous work to protect people and is in response to further statutory requirements introduced by the government.

The latest proposals, which are due to be agreed by the council’s executive on Monday (January 24), include providing housing support but say the victim should not always be the one forced to leave the family home.

Partners from different agencies will work together more closely, one example being that domestic abuse can often be uncovered from the impact it has on children in schools.

Deprivation also plays a part in Blackpool, with sufferers sometimes unable to leave an abusive relationship due to their poor financial situation.

Coun Jo Farrell, cabinet member for adult social care and health, says in her introduction to the new strategy: “We know that we have work to do to improve our services so that people in Blackpool who are at risk of, or are being abused receive the support they require.

“We want to encourage people to ask for help and report abuse at the earliest opportunity before it escalates and causes more harm.”

She adds: “We know that we need to change the culture and attitudes that tolerate abuse in the home and in relationships.

“We will extend our education programmes in schools and colleges, train our staff to recognise and respond to early signs of harm and challenge poor attitudes that can allow abuse to continue.”

The Domestic Abuse Act, which was adopted last April, has brought in a wider ranging legal definition of offences including emotional, coercive and controlling behaviour and economic abuse as well as physical violence.

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