Domestic abuse victims share their stories at public forum

Victims of domestic abuse will outline their experiences at a special forum aimed at improving how the criminal justice system tackles this important issue.

Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd has visited support groups and organisations and met with victims of domestic abuse throughout November to find out their experiences of the police and court process.

Several of the people he met have shared their stories on film, some of which will be screened at a parliamentary select committee-style forum on Monday 25 November.

Greater Manchester Police, Crown Prosecution Service, Magistrates Association and the court service will give evidence on how they are tackling domestic abuse and will be questioned by Tony Lloyd, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Jim Battle and MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth Debbie Abrahams.

Mr Lloyd said: “If we are to truly encourage victims to come forward and get help to break the cycle of abuse, all agencies need to work together to make sure they are doing the very best for victims. I’ve heard from many victims and the reality is this doesn’t always happen, causing the victim more distress - this is unacceptable.

“This forum brings together the police, CPS and the courts to examine what they’re doing to tackle domestic abuse, hear the testimonies of domestic abuse victims on where agencies have in some cases failed, and make recommendations on how to improve services to make sure that every victim receives a minimum standard from all parts of the criminal justice system.”

The forum, which is open to the public to observe, takes place at 11am on Monday 25 November, at the Friends Meeting House, 6 Mount Street, Manchester, M2 5NS.

“I’m really pleased to be joined by MP Debbie Abrahams on the panel,” adds Tony. “She brings a wealth of experience and has been working with the council, police and agencies in her own constituency to make a stand against domestic abuse.”

Throughout the month, Mr Lloyd has been encouraging people to report domestic abuse and raise awareness of the services and support available to victims, including the establishment of Independent Domestic Abuse Advisors and the introduction of Clare’s Law. He is also encouraging councillors, MPs, partner agencies and local people to sign a promise to work together to say no to domestic abuse.

You can sign up to the promise on the GMPCC website – gmpcc.org.uk/endthefear

If you, or someone you know, has suffered domestic violence, help is available. Visit endthefear.co.uk for more information or call Greater Manchester’s domestic violence helpline on 0161 636 7525.