Housing group targets domestic abuse

Published by Max Salsbury for 24dash.com in Communities and also in Housing

Wellingborough Homes has helped to host an open day aimed at stamping out domestic abuse.

In partnership with Wellingborough Women’s Aid, the housing association –which manages 4,500 homes - held the event in the centre of Wellingborough.

The occasion was purposely planned to coincide with the European football championships, when domestic violence is known to escalate.

Stalls were set up by partner agencies including Victim Support, Sure Start and The Sunflower Centre to offer support to victims and families suffering from domestic abuse.    

Mayor Harrington (pictured at the event), said: “Days like today demonstrate that domestic abuse will not be tolerated in our area. However, it would be naïve to pretend it doesn’t happen, so it was comforting to see that help was on hand. 

“It was great to see local people interacting over a cup of tea or even an alcohol-free cocktail which was a reminder of the role alcohol misuse often plays in violence at home.”    

Between April 2011 and March 2012, a total of 1,680 clients (713 women and 967 children) accessed services provided by Wellingborough Women’s Aid in relation to domestic abuse – an increase of more than 150 on the previous year, including 104 extra children.

Elly Simms, community manager for Wellingborough Homes, said: “It was a really positive day for everyone involved. All of the agencies attending were able to talk with the people who really matter, the public.

“At Wellingborough Homes we are passionate about people and the communities in which we work. Domestic abuse does happen and this was a day to encourage people to speak up and get help.  

“This event has grown each year and we hope it can continue to expand. The more people who know that help is out there, the less people will accept being victims of abuse at home.”