Bedford Borough Council has launched a Domestic Abuse Strategy consultation which runs until Friday 5 January. The aim is to capture the experiences of individuals in Bedford Borough with regard to domestic abuse. There are three separate consultations running for individuals who have directly experienced domestic abuse, family and friends of victims, and a third consultation for individuals who have perpetrated harmful behaviours. This initiative is a crucial step in shaping and improving the services provided for survivors, while also addressing the diverse needs of those affected by domestic abuse.
The purpose of this survey is to gain insights into the experiences of survivors living in Bedford Borough, enabling the Council to identify areas that can be improved in current services and support. By understanding the experiences of people using existing services, whether positive or negative, Bedford Borough Council can work with its partners towards creating a more effective and supportive environment for survivors.
Cllr Phillippa Martin-Moran-Bryant, Portfolio Holder for Community Safety and Housing, said, "We recognise the immense courage it takes for survivors to share their stories, and we are immensely grateful for their contributions. This input will be instrumental in shaping policies and services that cater to the specific needs of those who have experienced domestic abuse.”
Caroline Mackechnie-Jarvis, Domestic Abuse and Housing Projects Lead Officer, said, “Approximately one in three women and one in six men over the age of 16 experience domestic abuse at some point in their lives. Abuse can come in many forms, not just physical. It includes emotional abuse, psychological and verbal abuse, financial and economic abuse stalking and harassment, sexual abuse, coercive and controlling behaviours, honour-based abuse or forced marriage and other harmful behaviours.”
Claire Dempster, Senior Officer of Domestic Abuse Strategy and Intervention, added, “We’re conducting this survey so that we can listen to the local community and understand how our services can better provide them with the vital care and support that they need. We want to hear from as many people as possible so that we can shape the future of our services.”
The survey is open to survivors, as well as friends and family members of survivors living in Bedford Borough. Participants are encouraged to share their experiences within the last two years, as this information will be crucial in assessing and addressing the current state of domestic abuse within our community.
The survey also includes a section specifically designed for individuals who have perpetrated harmful behaviours on an intimate partner, ex-partner, child, parent, or other family member. This section is intended to gather insights into the experiences and perspectives of those who have committed abuse, with the goal of developing comprehensive support systems for both survivors and those seeking to break the cycle of abuse.
Please note that the survey is focused on experiences within the last two years. If someone’s experience falls outside of this time bracket but they would still like to share, the Council encourages them to make this clear in their responses.
The Domestic Abuse Strategy consultation is available online now, at www.bedford.gov.uk/DASConsultation. Paper copies are available at all Bedford Borough Libraries and on request by emailing caroline.mackechniejarvis@bedford.gov.uk or phoning 01234 718700. Translated copies can also be provided if required.
If anyone is ever in need of information or support regarding domestic abuse they should visit https://bedsdv.org.uk/ for help.
24-Hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline for Women 0808 2000 247.
Men's Advice Line 0808 8010 327 or ManKind Initiative 01823 334244.
LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline 0800 999 5428.
If you are concerned about someone's safety, phone the police on 999, if you cannot speak, use the Silent Solution. Dial 999 from a mobile and press 55 when prompted by the operator.