Specialist services available to people harming others through domestic abuse
Specialist services are available for people in Gwent who have committed domestic abuse or are concerned about the way their behaviour is affecting their partners or family.
Phoenix Domestic Abuse Services can work with anyone who admits to a pattern of behaviour towards their partners or family that is controlling, coercive, threatening, abusive or violent. This can include abuse that is psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional.
Specialist advisors will work with individuals from the ages of 11-18, or 18 and over, to understand and address the causes of their behaviour, aiming to reduce the risk of further abusive behaviour in the long term. Families, partners and ex-partners will also be offered support.
Cath Hill, Chief Executive Officer for Phoenix DAS said: “The safety of survivors and their children is at heart of everything we do. We know that people are often worried about the impact of their abusive behaviour on their partners and families, but that guilt and shame can stop them reaching out for help.
“Those who have reached out to us for support have found that they are able to work through issues in a safe, supportive environment, in many cases improving their relationships and helping them to feel better as a person, a partner and a parent.”
The initiative is being supported by the Police and Crime Commissioner for Gwent, Gwent Police, Gwent VAWDASV and Welsh Government.
Police and Crime Commissioner Jeff Cuthbert said: “We take domestic abuse incredibly seriously and invest a significant amount in victim support services. However, in order to make a real difference we have to look at ways of reducing offending in the first place and one of the ways we can do that is by working with those who have taken the first step and admitted that their behaviour needs to change.
“If you are someone who recognises that the way you are behaving is harming your partner or your family then help is available and I would urge you to get in touch for support.”
Detective inspector Chris Back said:
“Tackling domestic abuse and protecting victims remains a priority for Gwent Police. I would urge anyone suffering domestic abuse to report it to police, we will be there for you when you ask for help and make sure that you’re safe.
“We’re committed to working with our partners to keep everyone in Gwent safe. By working together we can make a real difference to the most vulnerable members of our community and provide support to those who need it.”
For support contact an advisor on 01495 291202 or email info@phoenixdas.co.uk