THE work of Cheshire Domestic Abuse Partnership in protecting and supporting families exposed to domestic abuse has been celebrated at a special event at 11 Downing Street, hosted by Government Minister Rosie Winterton.
The Partnership’s work was shortlisted in the ‘Achieving More through Partnership’ category of the Local Innovations Award scheme which is designed to recognise outstanding innovation and effectiveness. It was praised for its excellent work, particularly in relation to helping children and young people.
The Cheshire West and Chester Partnership make sure the combined resources of statutory and voluntary agencies are used effectively for local people.
Cllr Lynn Riley, Cheshire West and Chester Council’s executive member for Area and Community Services, said: “When people experience domestic abuse their whole lives can be shattered. As well as protection from the abuser they often need help with health, housing, parenting and a range of other issues. Having a joined-up approach is essential for recovery and we’re very proud of our local services which enable people to get back control of their lives.”
Thinking ‘family’ is what makes the difference to the Partnership’s effectiveness.
Any agency which comes into contact with a family is trained to undertake a risk assessment and think about the safety and needs of the children as well as the adult survivor.
Strategic co-ordinator Judith Gibson said: “An invitation to Number 11 is quite an honour.
“Our overwhelming emotion was one of privilege, not just in representing the many agencies which work together in the Partnership, but in representing the thousands of women, men and children for whom domestic abuse is a daily experience.