Sue Mountstevens, Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner, and Amanda Deeks, Chief Executive of South Gloucestershire Council, launched Next Link’s new domestic abuse services in South Gloucestershire on 21 September.
The launch was an introduction to Next Link and a great opportunity to talk to staff about the range of services available to victims in South Gloucestershire.
Services include:
- Safe Houses for women with children, single women, men and women with complex needs.
- Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVA) Specialist Community Outreach Services
- Independent Domestic and Sexual Violence Advisors (IDSVA) in North Bristol trust based at Southmead A&E and a pilot within Maternity Service.
- Identification and Referral to Improve Safety (IRIS) worker that provides a programme of training for all GP surgeries in South Glos, and advocacy support for victims.
- Survivor, Family and peer support including survivor group work.
Amanda Deeks, Chief Executive at South Gloucestershire Council, said: “It’s vital that victims of domestic abuse are given fast, effective support, so it’s great news that this enhanced service has been introduced across South Gloucestershire.
“Today’s event will help to increase awareness about this important service which now offers support for male and LGBT victims, as well as women and their children who are affected by these issues. We are also increasing our refuge capacity and the dedicated support line will be staffed over more hours each week under the new contract.”
Carol Metters MBE Next Link CEO said: “The Launch was a great success; with over 80 people attending, we set up future working relationships with many statutory and voluntary providers. Everyone was in agreement that domestic abuse is everyone business and can only be tackled effectively by working in partnership.”
If you are a victim or are worried about someone you know contact Next Link on 0800 4700 280 or visit www.nextlinkhousing.co.uk/southglos/contact/
