National Safeguarding Week, 17th to 21st October 2016, raising awareness of domestic abuse in York and North Yorkshire.
National Safeguarding Week will be supported by City of York and North Yorkshire’s Safeguarding Children and Adults’ Safeguarding Boards together with the council, North Yorkshire Police (NYP), the Independent Domestic Abuse Service (IDAS) and the Police and Crime Commissioner.
IDAS will be participating in a number of events across the county to raise awareness of domestic abuse among the public and professionals with the aim of supporting more people who are affected. Domestic abuse can affect people at all life stages with as many as 1 in 5 children affected, 1in 5 women experiencing some form of Domestic Abuse in their lifetime and as many as 1 in 12 men. IDAS supports anyone who is affected by domestic abuse.
Many of the events will involve a briefing on IDAS’ work and local data presented by IDAS Project Managers and Domestic Abuse Coordinators. Details of all the events and how to book on can be found at www.northyorks.gov.uk/safeguardingweek
In York, the public are invited to drop in to West Offices where a number of support services will be available to discuss domestic abuse and the help that is available. These sessions run from 11am-2pm on Monday 17th, Wednesday 19th and Friday 21st.
Sarah Hill, Director of IDAS in York, said: “For many people, not least children and young people, domestic abuse is still largely a hidden problem. It’s really positive that Safeguarding Week is being used to raise awareness about the impacts of abuse and to offer victims and survivors information about how they can access vital support services.”
Julia Mulligan, North Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “Sadly domestic abuse is under reported across North Yorkshire, including in York. That is something we want to improve, and I will work with partners to make sure victims have the confidence to come forward with the belief they will be believed, understood and will get the support they need.
“But there is good work across North Yorkshire and York too, and for example have the highest conviction rates for domestic abuse in the country. We also know local victims receive professional support to help them get their lives back on track.
“All types of domestic abuse have a devastating impact, not just for victims themselves but also for their children and families. I would urge anyone who is suffering to come forward and to be confident that they will be given all the support they need, be that from the police or independent services like IDAS."
Anyone who is concerned that someone they know may be the subject of domestic abuse can contact IDAS on the 24 hour helpline 03000 110 110.
