The first domestic abuse commissioner for England and Wales visited the Safer North Hampshire Domestic Abuse Forum recently, to hear from members how her role could positively improve frontline support for those affected by domestic abuse in North Hampshire.
Nicole Jacobs, who has worked for domestic abuse charities for two decades, was appointed last year to be responsible for championing victims of domestic abuse and recommending improvements to the Government.
She attended the Safer North Hampshire Domestic Abuse Forum meeting at Hart District Council and talked with forum members. She also provided an update on the progress of the Domestic Abuse Bill, which includes measures to end the cross-examination of victims by their abusers in the family courts and allow police and courts to intervene earlier where domestic abuse is suspected. She also outlined new powers which her role will have and the priority issues she is seeking to focus on during the next few months.
Members of the forum highlighted the importance of ensuring that domestic abuse services are truly inclusive and that all victims feel able to access help and support; education in schools and other settings such as health; issues with civil court hearings; the benefits of specialist domestic abuse courts and whether mapping services would be helpful.
Councillor Simon Bound, chairman of the Safer North Hampshire* Partnership, said: “We were delighted to welcome Nicole Jacobs to the meeting and she was keen to hear from members how she and the Government could provide frontline support to those affected by domestic abuse.”
The Safer North Hampshire Domestic Abuse Forum is comprised of representatives from the many local agencies that work with victims of domestic abuse who live and work in Rushmoor and Hart. The forum works towards improving the health, well-being and lives of the many victims of domestic abuse.
For more information on domestic abuse and local sources of support, visit: www.safernh.co.uk or email communitysafetyteam@communitysafetynh.org.
Notes to Editors: Pictured are Forum member Charlene Maine (left) and Nicole Jacobs (right).