Domestic abuse in spotlight at forum

VICTIMS of domestic abuse will share their experiences at a forum designed to help bring more offenders to justice.

Greater Manchester Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd has visited support groups and organisations and met victims of domestic abuse to find out their experiences of the police and court process.

Some of the people he met have shared their stories on film and these will be screened at a parliamentary select committee-style forum on Monday.

Representatives from Greater Manchester Police, the Crown Prosecution Service, the Magistrates’ Association and the court service will give evidence on how they are tackling domestic abuse and will be questioned by Tony Lloyd, deputy police and crime commissioner Jim Battle and Oldham East and Saddleworth MP Debbie Abrahams.

Mr Lloyd said: “If we are to truly encourage victims to come forward and get help to break the cycle of abuse, all agencies need to work together to make sure they are doing the very best for victims.

“I’ve heard from many victims and the reality is this doesn’t always happen, causing the victim more distress. This is unacceptable.

“This forum brings together the police, CPS and the courts to examine what they’re doing to tackle domestic abuse, hear the testimonies of domestic abuse victims on where agencies have in some cases failed, and make recommendations on how to improve services.”

The forum, which is open to the public, will take place at 11am on Monday, at the Friends Meeting House, 6 Mount Street, Manchester.

Stand
Mr Lloyd added: “I’m really pleased to be joined by Debbie Abrahams on the panel. She brings a wealth of experience and has been working with the council, police and agencies in her own constituency to make a stand against domestic abuse.”

Throughout November, Mr Lloyd has been encouraging people to report domestic abuse and raise awareness of the services and support available to victims, including the establishment of Independent Domestic Abuse Advisors and the introduction of Clare’s Law.

The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (Clare’s Law) can be used by anyone concerned over a partner’s abusive behaviour or those concerned about a friend or family member in a relationship and at risk of violence by their partner.

Visit www.gmpcc.org.uk/endthefear or call Greater Manchester’s domestic violence helpline on 0161-636 7525 for more information.