Domestic Abuse

Domestic Abuse is Britain’s biggest hidden crime and one that overwhelmingly affects women and their children.

We know that Domestic Abuse is a serious public health issue and that the statistical information is shocking. For women aged 19 – 44 Domestic Abuse is the leading cause of morbidity greater than cancer, war and motor vehicle accidents. 

89% of the victims who suffer sustained Domestic Abuse are female however we also know that Domestic Abuse affects the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans gender community and male victims. 

We have taken huge strides by restructuring the forum and  have developed a range of programmes and schemes to support victims of domestic abuse.

Please remember that you're not alone and domestic abuse is a crime.  If you would like to speak in confidence please ring 01325 364486 we are there to help you.

Darlington CDRP recognises that many of the violent incidents which occur in Darlington occur within relationships. The CDRP has been working to increase the number of Domestic Abuse incidents that are reported, so help can be given to victims early on, and to reduce the number of repeat incidents.

CDRP Activity

The CDRP is working hard to tackle domestic abuse, through employing a Domestic Abuse Co-ordinator, Joy Easterby. Joy has developed a Forum of the agencies involved. This has two sets of meetings:

The Domestic Abuse Network Group

The Domestic Abuse Network Group meets on a monthly basis to asses progress in tackling domestic abuse and work out what areas need development. This group is attended by a wide range of service providers and volunteers from across Darlington, it is also attended by guest speakers who give examples of best practice and government proposals that could improve the situation. It is chaired by Susan Degnan.

Domestic Abuse Steering Group

The steering group is made up of a number of high-level representatives from across the Council, Darlington Partnership and the Women’s Refuge: Ada Burns, Chief Executive of Darlington Borough Council Chairs the steering group.  The group meet quarterly to discuss the strategic and financial approach to tackling domestic abuse in Darlington, they also make decisions about where to allocate recources and maximise services for best effect.

The CDRP has also developed a Domestic Abuse Action Plan that includes, training and support programmes for victims and for people who work with victims such as those in the Council and PCT.  In addition to this the Action Plan a Domestic Abuse Strategy 2008-11 has been produced.

Help, Advice and Information

Domestic Abuse Helpline  (01325) 364486

Police (Darlington)  0845 6060365

In an Emergency Call 999