Help and FAQ’s

As a current NW Co-ordinator, will my passwords to the OWL system still work so I can engage with local people?

All existing passwords will continue to work. NW Co-ordinators can continue to access and engage with local members by following the links via the NW icon from the new Staffordshire Smart Alert website, www.staffordshiresmartalert.uk or via the traditional website, www.owl.co.uk

Can businesses join together to develop a business network and have one shared domestic abuse champion?

Companies with up to 10 employees could have their own DA champion or may consider joining up with other businesses to develop a network.

Business networks wanting to share a domestic abuse champion will be decided on a case-by-case basis – please contact new-era@victimsupport.org.uk to speak to an advisor.

Can I get Staffordshire Smart Alert on my mobile phone?

Staffordshire Smart Alert is available as an App for both Apple and Android phones. By downloading the App, you’ll receive Alerts directly to your mobile phone.

Can you supply funding application forms in alternative languages?

If you would like an application form in an alternative format and/or language please contact us to discuss your requirements.

Do domestic abuse victims make good champions?

Individuals currently affected by domestic abuse will not make good champions – but domestic abuse survivors might.

Businesses can contact New Era if they need help to select appropriate champions.

Does Neighbourhood Watch still exist?

Yes, NW is very active across Staffordshire and both the PCC and Chief Constable have stated their ongoing support for the valuable contribution that it makes.

Have you replaced the OWL system?

No, Staffordshire Smart Alert is powered by OWL.

How can I join Staffordshire Smart Alert?

This Staffordshire Smart Alert website, www.staffordshiresmartalert.uk will enable you to view Smart Alerts issued, set personal preferences and register too. Additionally, you can download the Staffordshire Smart Alert App by searching the Apple App Store or Google Play store for Staffs Smart Alert.

How do organisations / businesses select a domestic abuse champion?

New Era has produced guidance to support businesses in selecting DA champions within the workplace. Preferred characteristics include being a good listener, personable and approachable. Some organisations nominate employees to become a DA champion to dovetail with other roles, such as first aider and / or mental health and wellbeing champion.

Champions aren’t expected to be experts in domestic abuse, but with training will be able to respond appropriately when a disclosure has been made and direct those in need to the help that’s available.

Champions can work within a People Services environment or could be an appropriate employee in the workplace – it’s for participating organisations to decide how they want to implement the service.

Is the domestic abuse champion training tailored or provided for groups?

It can be either. For larger organisations with a number of domestic abuse champions, New Era’s training will be tailored for that group.

For companies where there are only one or two champions, they will form part of a training group with other organisations / businesses.

Is this initiative limited to one domestic abuse champion per organisation?

No – one domestic abuse champion may not be enough for larger organisations. Organisations / businesses can have as many champions as they need – please contact new-era@victimsupport.org.uk if you’d like to speak to an advisor.

Some of our offices are outside Staffordshire’s boundaries – how can we support those affected by domestic abuse?

If your business has premises outside Staffordshire’s boundaries, please contact new-era@victimsupport.org.uk to speak to an advisor.