London: A new UK initiative is improving victim support and increasing domestic abuse convictions.
This operation, a joint effort between Avon and Somerset Police and Somerset Council, has shown promising results.
The approach enhances victim engagement, gathers more evidence, and ensures perpetrators are held accountable.
A dedicated response car, staffed by police and an Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA), assists victims directly.
These in-person visits occur within 24 hours of an arrest, ensuring timely support.
Victim Engagement
Quick intervention increases the likelihood of victims engaging with law enforcement and support services.
This proactive response offers emotional support and advocacy during a crucial period.
Officers and IDVAs encourage victims to share information and consider legal action.
They also connect victims with ongoing support services and safeguarding resources.
Over 36 deployments, in-person contact was achieved in 75% of cases.
Key Findings
Among victims engaged, 44% provided extra evidence to police.
Nearly 30% supported formal legal action against perpetrators.
Most victims who gave additional material proceeded to offer formal evidence.
Over 75% accepted IDVA support or referrals to other services.
These efforts help build stronger cases and prevent future domestic abuse.
Significant Impact
One victim revealed five more years of abuse due to this intervention.
The victim, initially hesitant, later provided crucial evidence for prosecution.
The suspect was charged and remanded in custody, awaiting trial.
Without this initiative, key evidence may not have been uncovered.
This demonstrates how trust-building leads to justice and protection.
Expert Insights
Detective Inspector Matt Cable highlighted the importance of early victim engagement.
He emphasized that specialist support improves intervention effectiveness.
A control group comparison will further assess the impact of this strategy.
This analysis will help determine best practices for wider implementation.
Support Services
Angela Stone from Somerset Domestic Abuse Service praised the collaboration.
She stressed the value of early intervention and safety planning for victims.
Sharing information with response officers helps ensure trauma-informed support.
This joint effort fosters trust and encourages victims to seek help.
A people-focused approach remains critical to improving domestic abuse outcomes.
Seeking Help
If you’re experiencing domestic abuse or worried about someone, support is available.
Call 0800 69 49 999 (8am–8pm, seven days a week).
Visit the Somerset Domestic Abuse website for live chat assistance.
Email domesticabuseservice@somerset.gov.uk for further help.
In emergencies, dial 999 or use 55 if speaking is unsafe.
