Oxfordshire County Council to expand and renew support for Domestic Abuse victim-survivors

Victim survivors of domestic abuse are to continue to benefit from local support after Oxfordshire County Council renewed provision for a series of important services.

Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet has today (19 July) approved plans to renew provisions for safe accommodation and support, specialist support from independent advocates and perpetrator support to help prevent and reduce harm to individuals and their children.

Councillor Mark Lygo, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health, said: “Anybody could be a victim-survivor of domestic abuse, regardless of age, gender or socio-economic background. Domestic abuse can be much more than just physical violence. It can also include coercive control, financially controlling someone, emotional manipulation and abuse, and sexual abuse. 

“This is why I am glad we will be renewing and updating the services we provide to ensure that more people can access the support they need, whether be to escape an abusive situation or prevent one.”

Oxfordshire Domestic Abuse Strategic Board have developed a new strategy, which they consulted on earlier in the year. It aims to reduce the risk and harm of domestic abuse and to provide high-quality services for adults, young people and children affected. The services will focus on improving outcomes for individuals and addressing inequalities of provision in line with national guidance and the Domestic Abuse Act 2021.

Most victim-survivors of domestic abuse are women and girls, but men and boys can also be affected. 74% of victims of all domestic abuse-related recorded crimes were women, compared to 26% of men.

More information and advice on domestic abuse services and where and how to access support is available: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/residents/fire-and-public-safety/domestic-abuse.

Anyone can get free and confidential advice from the Oxfordshire Domestic Abuse Service Helpline on 0800 731 0055. Anybody in immediate danger should contact emergency services on 999.

Click Sign up to hear from us and receive the latest news and updates thanks to our fortnightly newsletter, Your Oxfordshire.