Groups unite in Dorchester to tackle domestic abuse (From Dorset Echo)

Groups unite in Dorchester to tackle domestic abuse

11:00am Saturday 16th February 2013 in News By Harry Hogger

SUPPORT groups and dignitaries united in Dorchester for a strong show of support for domestic violence victiims.

The first major event held at West Dorset District Council’s new offices saw a host of speakers gather at the No Excuse for Abuse information sharing day.

Among those present were new Chief Constable Debbie Simpson, Lord Lieutenant of Dorset Valerie Pitt-Rivers, High Sheriff Jeremy Pope, Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset Martyn Underhill and the mayors of Dorchester, Bridport and Weymouth and Portland.

The event was organised by the West Dorset and Weymouth and Portland Domestic Violence and Abuse Forum.

Chairman of the forum and district councillor Molly Rennie said the day was about bringing services working to tackle domestic violence together and finding ways to make them more accessible to victims.

She said: “Domestic violence is on the increase with reporting figures up nine per cent both locally and nationally.

“We have got to offer people support and help them if they are willing to come forward and disclose information.”

Councillor Rennie said the day was inspired by an event at Kingston Maurward last year that was organised by the Equality South West and The Women’s Action Network Dorset (WAND) that brought frontline workers together.

She said she was delighted for the turnout at South Walks House from both support groups and dignitaries.

Coun Rennie added: “It’s amazing the number of people who are here and have come to hear, to listen and to help people.

“The only way we can help people is if we share information.”

As she welcomed dignitaries to the event, Coun Rennie said: “It’s incredible so many people have come together today, it sends a strong message.”

Emma Scott, who is a community development officer for West Dorset District Council, said the event was also for people who were personally affected by domestic violence to come and find out more about the organisations that are out there to offer support.