In an aim to gather the voices of Bedfordians on the critical issue of domestic abuse, Bedford Borough Council has rolled out a comprehensive Domestic Abuse Strategy consultation, set to run until Friday, 5 January.
The consultation seeks to capture the diverse experiences of individuals within the borough about domestic abuse, with a focus on survivors, their families and friends, and those who have engaged in harmful behaviours, emphasising the importance of collective input.
The initiative marks a pivotal stride towards shaping and enhancing services for survivors, while also addressing the multifaceted needs of those impacted by domestic abuse.
Caroline Mackechnie-Jarvis, Domestic Abuse and Housing Projects Lead Officer said: “Approximately one in three women and one in six men over the age of 16 experience domestic abuse at some point in their lives.
“Abuse can come in many forms, not just physical. It includes emotional abuse, psychological and verbal abuse, financial and economic abuse stalking and harassment, sexual abuse, coercive and controlling behaviours, honour-based abuse or forced marriage and other harmful behaviours.”
The Council say insights from survivors in the Borough, will enable them to make a targeted effort to identify areas for improvement in existing services and support systems.
Participants are urged to contribute their experiences from the past two years, providing crucial information to assess and confront the current state of domestic abuse within the community.
Cllr Phillippa Martin-Moran-Bryant (Conservative,Great Barford) Portfolio Holder for Community Safety and Housing, said, “We recognise the immense courage it takes for survivors to share their stories, and we are immensely grateful for their contributions.
“This input will be instrumental in shaping policies and services that cater to the specific needs of those who have experienced domestic abuse.”
Breaking the cycle
A distinctive section of the survey is dedicated to individuals who have perpetrated harmful behaviours.
This segment aims to gather insights into the experiences and perspectives of those who have committed abuse, with the overarching goal of developing comprehensive support systems for both survivors and those seeking to break the cycle of abuse.
It is essential to note that the survey specifically focuses on experiences within the last two years. However, the Council welcomes responses from those whose experiences fall outside this timeframe, urging them to clarify their timeline in their submissions.
The Domestic Abuse Strategy consultation is accessible online at bedford.gov.uk/DASconsultation.
Additionally, paper copies are available at all Bedford Borough Libraries and can be requested by contacting caroline.mackechniejarvis@bedford.gov.uk or calling 01234 718700.
Translated copies are also available upon request.
Claire Dempster, Senior Officer of Domestic Abuse Strategy and Intervention, added, “We’re conducting this survey so that we can listen to the local community and understand how our services can better provide them with the vital care and support that they need.
“We want to hear from as many people as possible so that we can shape the future of our services.”
For individuals in need of information or support regarding domestic abuse, the Council directs them to bedsdv.org.uk.
Further assistance can also be found through helplines, including the 24-Hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline for Women at 0808 2000 247, Men’s Advice Line at 0808 8010 327, or ManKind Initiative at 01823 334244.
The LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline is contactable at 0800 999 5428.
In cases of immediate concern for someone’s safety, call 999. If unable to speak, individuals are encouraged to use the Silent Solution by dialling 999 from a mobile and pressing 55 when prompted by the operator.
