"Tackling domestic abuse is an issue that councils take very seriously and we look forward to the Government’s commitment to transforming the response to domestic abuse in its forthcoming Bill."
Responding to Office for National Statistics figures on domestic abuse in England and Wales for the year ending March 2018, Cllr Simon Blackburn, Chair of the Local Government Association’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board, said:
“Domestic abuse is a horrendous crime, which can have a long-term and devastating impact on families, particularly children. Tackling domestic abuse is an issue that councils take very seriously and we look forward to the Government’s commitment to transforming the response to domestic abuse in its forthcoming Bill.
“There needs to be greater investment in early intervention and prevention schemes that helps stop domestic abuse occurring in the first place. This is why we have been supportive of the Safe Lives call for increasing the number of independent domestic violence advisers in hospital settings, as they play a crucial role in reaching the most vulnerable victims of domestic abuse so that families can achieve safety, sooner.
“We need to work with perpetrators to understand and challenge their behaviour, as well as raise awareness in schools which is crucial to ensuring that children and young people understand what a healthy relationship is.
“With local government facing an overall £7.8 billion funding gap by 2025, any legislative changes in the Government’s forthcoming Bill must be matched with adequate resources and funding.”