Today marks the end of Domestic Abuse Awareness Month, and Staffordshire Commissioner Ben Adams is encouraging victims to seek emotional and practical support from the New Era Domestic Abuse Victim Service.
Commissioned by the Staffordshire Commissioner, Staffordshire County Council and Stoke-on-Trent City Council, New Era delivers free and confidential holistic support for all those affected by domestic abuse including adults, children and families.
Support is available for victims 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone or live webchat. The service also has dedicated specialist advisors working with LGBTQ+; Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic and Refugee (BAMER) communities; male victims and older victims; as well as those with a disability.
Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime, Ben Adams said: “Domestic abuse can take many forms including, physical abuse, coercive control, threats, intimidation and belittling.
“It can often be incredibly difficult for victims to seek help but it’s important they know that they are not alone – and support is available.
“New Era does a fantastic job at supporting victims across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent and services are available throughout the day and night to ensure victims can access support when the time is right for them.”
New Era also provides a Behaviour Change service for anyone who is displaying unhealthy or abusive behaviour within their relationship and wants to change this. Specialist support is available for both adults and children.
Between April and June 2025, New Era:
- Supported 1,784 victims – 100% of those supported reported improved feelings of safety and 99% reported improved resilience and self esteem
- Supported 94 individuals through the Behaviour Change service – 99% of those engaged reported their thoughts and attitudes had been challenged as a result of attending the intervention programme
- Supported 487 child victims – 99% of those who received support reported improved feelings of safety and 100% reported improved knowledge of where to go for help and support
- Supported 9 children through the Behaviour Change service – 99% of those engaged said they would improve their behaviour as a result of the support they had received
Service Manager at New Era, Melina Hancox said: “Domestic Abuse Awareness Month is a powerful reminder that help is available and no one has to face abuse alone.
“At New Era, we provide free, confidential and inclusive support to victims across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether someone is experiencing emotional, physical, financial or coercive abuse, our team is here to listen, support and empower.
“The figures from April to June show the real impact of our work, and we remain committed to empowering victims, improving safety and supporting recovery. We encourage anyone experiencing abuse to reach out, support is always available, and you are not alone.”
Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Domestic abuse takes many forms and can happen to anybody. It can have devastating consequences, and we know it can be extremely difficult for survivors to reach out to someone for help.
“New Era are carrying out vital work in our city to support victims and their wellbeing, as well as educating perpetrators to understand that their behaviour is wrong.
“These services are specialist and available to everyone every day, which means residents can access tailored support at the time of their choosing. I encourage anybody who needs help to reach out to New Era and get the support they need – you are not alone.”
To access victim support call New Era on 0330 303 3778, for Behaviour Change support call 0300 373 5772. For more information visit: www.new-era.uk
Other domestic abuse support across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent:
Glow (North Staffordshire)
- Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm helpline for victims – 0330 094 5559
- https://findtheglow.org.uk/
Pathway (Lichfield & Tamworth)
- 24/7 helpline for victims – 01543 676 800
- https://www.pathway-project.co.uk/
Staffordshire Women’s Aid (Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent)
- 24/7 helpline for victims – 0300 330 5959
- https://staffordshirewomensaid.org/
