This week, as part of No More Week, a campaign raising awareness of domestic and sexual violence, I would like to hand my newsletter over to Dorset Police’s Domestic Abuse lead. Alongside the vital work the Force do to protect and safeguard victims of domestic abuse and apprehend perpetrators, bringing them to justice, my Office also commissions and funds several initiatives to ensure the right support is in place for those who have been affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence in Dorset.

These include funding for the Maple Project, which provides a service for high-risk victims of domestic abuse as well as domestic abuse advisors within Dorset Police, commissioning for domestic abuse workers with partners such as BCHA and funding for services to support victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence in Dorset including Victim Support, STARS Dorset and The Shores, as well as more services for people with specific vulnerabilities.

Today, I would like to introduce Chief Superintendent Julie Howe, who is Dorset Police’s Domestic Abuse lead, and represents the Force regionally, as well as the wider region at the National Domestic Abuse stakeholder meeting.

“An integral part of my role as Dorset Police’s lead on domestic abuse is to ensure victims are provided with a good, quality service. As well as developing and implementing policies, ensuring there is good training for staff to identify and respond to domestic abuse, the role also involves ensuring that we are working to reduce offending, while continually improving our service for victims.

“We have made significant improvements in this area since 2019. The Force has supported the implementation of specialist training for first responders, and we are currently rolling out specialist training for CID and the Volume Crime Team in relation to coercive and controlling behaviour. There has been a focus on stronger protection orders for victims as well as a new risk assessment for officers to use which is proven to be more effective at safeguarding victims and identifying high risk indicators.

“I understand what it takes for someone to come forward and ask for help – no matter who that help is from. My message to any victim is that you will be believed. Victims often are so controlled by their perpetrator that they have been coerced into thinking that they are the cause of the abuse, that no one will believe them and that they will not be heard. For someone trying to help a victim my advice is to be non-judgemental, ensure that the person has a safety plan and that they are seeking support through a recognised charity or doctor if they do not feel able to tell the police.

“If you or someone you know is struggling to leave their situation, my advice would be to look after your or their safety first. Leaving an abusive partner is often the riskiest time so it is important to ensure that any exit is planned carefully, this might include a safety plan. Reach out for support if it is safe to do so. Speak to a trusted friend or family member or seek professional help from a charity or GP. Seek legal protection, there are lots of measures available to protect victims and there are services that can help secure these. If you’re in immediate danger always call 999.”

Thank you to Chief Superintendent Howe for your words of advice. Domestic abuse is an appalling, destructive crime so it is reassuring to know that recent work by Dorset Police has seen an improvement in detection rates alongside the number of cases resulting in a criminal outcome. As Police and Crime Commissioner, I have heard from victims firsthand about the terrible impact these crimes have had on them and that’s why it is vital that victims know Dorset Police is focused on effective enforcement for perpetrators, but also that tailored support and protection is available. Whether you seek support from Dorset Police or reach out to other agencies, please know that you will be believed and supported. I am determined to do all I can to ensure victims in Dorset can feel confident this is the case.

David Sidwick

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner

If you are experiencing domestic abuse you can reach out to Dorset Police. If you’re in danger call 999. For non emergencies, report via www.dorset.police.uk, call 101 or visit www.dorset.police.uk/abuse-help for more information.

Support services available include the following:

- National Domestic Abuse Helpline (24 hrs) 0808 2000 247

- Victim Support 0300 3030 163

- Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole Domestic Abuse Referrals & Support Line: 01202 710777

- Dorset (Paragon) 0800 032 5204

- Mankind Initiative 01823 334244

- National Men’s Advice Line (Respect) 0808 8010327

- Waterlily Project 01202 246763

- STARS 01202 308840

- Paladin (Stalking) 020 3866 4107

- The Shores 0800 970 9954

- NCDV for support with Non Molestation/Occupation/Prohibited Steps orders 0800 970 2070