A multi-agency networking group has been set up in Basingstoke to ensure people affected by domestic abuse receive a joined-up response, irrespective of which agency was initially contacted.

The North East Hampshire Domestic Abuse Forum in Basingstoke, which met for the first time recently, is comprised of 19 representatives from a wide range of local agencies, including the police, housing, domestic abuse services, Citizens Advice, and health.

The Forum, which has been set up by the Safer North Hampshire Community Safety Team, will improve performance in how domestic abuse is tackled across agencies, working in a coordinated manner to ensure that those affected by domestic abuse can access the most appropriate services for them and receive a consistent response across agencies.

Councillor Simon Bound, Cabinet Member for Community Safety at Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council said: “In 2016/17 there were over 2,500 incidents of domestic abuse reported to the police from the Basingstoke area.

“Forming a network of agencies will benefit everyone as it will help to ensure that victims, perpetrators and children and young people affected by domestic abuse received a joined-up response, regardless of which agency they initially approach.” Support for domestic abuse victims and children in the Basingstoke area is provided by the You Trust. Contact the on 0330 0165112. Self-referrals from men, women and those in same-sex relationships are welcome, in addition to agency referrals.

Support for those concerned about their own abusive behaviour, is provided through the Domestic Abuse Prevention Partnership. Contact the Partnership on 02380 989898 or through the Respect phoneline on 0808 802 4040.

In an emergency, call 999.

*Any agencies which would like to be involved with the forum, are urged to contact Karen Evans on 01252 774256 or email karen.evans@communitysafetnh.org