There is a greater need for domestic abuse resources and services in the North West according to professionals working with victims and perpetrators.
92% of survey respondents said they do not feel that there are adequate resources and services for victims of domestic abuse in the North West. The respondents of the survey included a range of professionals such as council members, charity workers, social workers, police officers and teachers.
The survey was carried out as part of a domestic abuse conference that took place at the Manchester Town Hall last Thursday. The conference, which was held by national law firm Stephensons Solicitors LLP, explored the impact of domestic abuse on children and families.
The day-long conference consisted of a range of speakers including Tony Lloyd (Police and Crime Commissioner for Greater Manchester), Nicky Porter (Chief Inspector for Greater Manchester Police), Abby Ogier (Children's service manager at Barnardos), Karl Rowley (QC at St John's Chambers), Emma Scott (director of Rights of Women) and Vicki Hamilton (charted clinical child psychologist).
Respondents to the survey were also asked which services they would like to see more investment in to assist domestic abuse victims. The most common suggestion was the need for more support programmes for the perpetrators of domestic abuse.
Respondents also suggested that different agencies need to work together in order to deal with a domestic abuse cases in the most effective way. Other issues highlighted include more education about domestic abuse within schools and further support for families wishing to stay together.
Mike Devlin, managing partner of the family department, said: "The survey highlights the need for organisations to work together when tackling a domestic abuse case. The results also show the importance of further investment into domestic abuse services and resources.”
Vicky Gethin, head of the domestic abuse team, said "I would like to thank everyone who attended our domestic abuse conference. It was a great chance for professionals from a variety of different roles to share their own experiences and perspectives on domestic abuse."