New domestic abuse service launches in Devon
A new domestic abuse support service is set to launch in Devon.
The service, which will start on April 1, aims to transform how people in the county access and receive support.
The service will be provided by the Devon Domestic Abuse Alliance, a partnership of seven local organisations, North Devon Against Domestic Abuse (NDADA), Encompass Southwest, CoLab Exeter, More Positive Me, The Olive Project, CRAFT Training and Development, and Surviving Abuse North Devon.
Each partner brings a wealth of expertise which will help ensure that those in need of the service, their friends and families, as well as professionals, receive the right advice, information, and care at the right time.
At the heart of this approach is My Story, a person-centred approach led by a dedicated support team which aims to avoid individuals being referred to multiple services and then asked to share their traumatic experiences multiple times.
The service will include a single entry gateway, community domestic abuse support, safe accommodation, trauma-responsive recovery, specialist support, and behaviour change interventions.
Councillor Roger Croad, Devon County Council cabinet member for public health, communities, and equality, said: "I’m pleased to be able to announce the launch of this service which will help ensure that everyone who needs help, whether it’s a listening ear, housing, advocacy, trauma recovery support, or help navigating the justice system, is treated with care and compassion and in a way that reflects an individual’s background, needs and experiences."
Hannah Ashford, CEO of NDADA, said: "This alliance brings together expertise from across the county, creating a truly collaborative approach to suppo rting people.
"With a flexible and responsive service, we can reach and support people in Devon, including those in marginalised communities, ensuring that everyone affected by domestic abuse can access the support they need, when they need it.
"This alliance is a powerful step forward in delivering inclusive, accessible, and trauma-informed support for all."
Liz Cirasuolo, violence against women and girls strategic lead at Devon County Council, said: "I am immensely proud of what we have been able to achieve for those affected by domestic abuse in Devon.
"This new service will provide much needed support to victims and their family throughout their recovery journey, empowering them to break the intergenerational cycle of abuse, heal and recover.
"But also, it will play a pivotal role in improving the overall system response to domestic abuse in Devon through collaborations and partnerships with other services, and I am looking forward to seeing the impact of this."
Earlier this year, Her Majesty, Queen Camilla visited Exeter CoLab Women, which supports individuals who have experienced homelessness, domestic abuse, trauma and drug and alcohol issues.
