Victim Support has retained a contract, now worth £2.8m per year for the next three years, to deliver the New Era victim service, providing free practical and emotional support to anyone impacted by domestic abuse (DA) across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
From 1 October, Victim Support will also take up the £500,000 a year contract (up from £260,000 a year previously) to provide separate, free services under the New Era brand for perpetrators wanting to change their abusive behaviour.
Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime, Ben Adams said: “I’m delighted to announce that Victim Support has been awarded the contracts to deliver the New Era domestic abuse services across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, following a rigorous procurement process.
“Through New Era, Victim Support has provided vital help and support for over 22,000 adults and children impacted by domestic abuse over the past three years, and these contracts ensure they will be there for the next three to support those who need it most.”
New Era offers tailored, confidential support for all those affected by DA, including adults and children, victims, families, businesses, communities and stakeholders.
DA includes any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members.
Between 1 April 2018 and 31 March 2023, New Era:
- Received almost 30,000 referrals via the Victim helpline, with almost 19,000 adults and 3,300 children provided with dedicated support and help to move on to live safe, fulfilling lives
- Received almost 2,000 referrals to the Perpetrator support service, with 682 adults and 168 children provided with help to change their behaviour
Victoria Wilson, Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture at Staffordshire County Council, said: “Domestic abuse is a horrible crime that has a significant impact on both the victim and the wider family.
“We continue to work closely with our partners through jointly commissioned services to tackle domestic abuse. This includes supporting victims and their families as well as holding perpetrators to account, supporting them to recognise their behaviour, take accountability and make changes. This support, coupled with increased work around education and awareness, prevention and early intervention, will help reduce incidents of domestic abuse in Staffordshire.”
Cllr David Williams, cabinet member for communities, education and public safety at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “I’m very pleased that we will be continuing to work with Victim Support to deliver this vital New Era service.
“It is so important that we provide emotional support for victims of domestic abuse, while also seeking to help perpetrators change their abusive behaviours. This funding from Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Staffordshire County Council will enable that work to continue over the next three years.”
Mel Hancox, Victim Support Area Manager, said: “Victim Support are thrilled that our domestic abuse services in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent have been commissioned for another three years. We are also looking forward to expanding our services to include perpetrators – helping those who commit abuse to change their behaviour and preventing it from happening again.
“Delivering these two services will allow us to continue raising awareness of domestic abuse within our communities, seeking every opportunity for earlier intervention. Importantly, as an independent charity, victims can access our services regardless of whether or not they have reported to the police.
“Additionally, we aim to raise awareness amongst professionals, businesses, workplaces and within education settings in order to spot the signs of abuse, respond appropriately and know how and where to get help.”
New Era also provides specialist training for businesses and a DA in the Workplace Champion programme, and full details of the free courses and how to book can be made via the Eventbrite facility found on the New Era website, www.new-era.uk
New Era offers a consistent approach across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. New Era victim services is available by calling 0300 303 3778, or via the website and Live Chat facility at www.new-era.uk. New Era perpetrator support is available by telephoning 01785 904770 during office hours, Monday to Friday.
