A new strategy to help prevent domestic abuse and offer support to those experiencing it will be presented at a Wirral Council committee meeting for discussion this evening.

The strategy, which has been co-produced with local residents and community groups, outlines a joint commitment from local organisations to support a collaborative five-year plan for tackling domestic abuse in Wirral.

The new document is designed to be read by professionals as well as those who are experiencing abuse. It outlines the different forms of domestic abuse alongside eye-opening local statistics, and five key priorities for the future – based on one key ambition: For Wirral to be a place where as few people as possible are affected by domestic abuse, but those who are can get help to end the abuse and go on to live the lives they want.

The five priorities for Wirral support services are:

  • Be there when we’re needed
  • Increase safety for those at risk, without adding to their trauma
  • Reduce opportunities for perpetrators to abuse
  • Support people to live the lives they want after harm occurs
  • A better, kinder future for the next generation

The strategy moves away from the ‘zero tolerance’ rhetoric of previous domestic abuse campaigns, making it clear that professionals will not take an ‘all or nothing’ stance before offering advice and support. Services will listen, offer choices, and support anyone experiencing domestic abuse to be in control.

Chair of Wirral’s Children, Young People and Education Committee, Councillor Wendy Clements, said: “This new ambitious strategy will bring communities and professionals together to challenge the stigmas around domestic abuse. It aims to increase confidence in local support services, get people talking, and offer hope for the future.

“We know that there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to domestic abuse support. Our future partnership work will offer a holistic approach to support the wider family and achieve longer-term change.

“Using voice groups and an online forum, we’ll update on our progress and help to keep the conversation going.”

If the new strategy is agreed at the committee meeting, it will sit alongside a series of workshops developed by Wirral Council to engage stakeholders and inform future support programmes.

Wirral’s new domestic abuse strategy will be presented at the Children, Young People and Education Committee meeting from 6pm on Tuesday, October 19.