Devon domestic abuse pilot launched

Devon & Cornwall Police and Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service have today launched an innovative pilot project aimed at protecting victims of domestic abuse across South Devon.

Aimed at reducing harm and enabling the most vulnerable to feel safe in their homes agencies will work collaboratively to provide services personalised to victims targeting hidden harm.

New revised joint home safety visits in high-risk cases will include comprehensive security reviews effectively identifying, reducing and preventing repeat victimisation.

During visits agencies will provide victims with advice, support and prevention tools thereby minimising risk in the homes of vulnerable persons.

Devon & Cornwall Police has invested £2,000 in the pilot enabling the purchase of specialised prevention equipment.

By reviewing data sharing protocols and incident referrals the project delivers improvements in how agencies identify and respond to domestic incidents.

The project demonstrates the police and fire service commitment to reducing harm and also demonstrates that prevention is everyone’s responsibility and that we work together to support communities in reducing crime.

Superintendent Glen Mayhew, South Devon Commander, said: “Multi agency working is Key to tackling the complex issues associated with domestic abuse and in particular, cases that are perceived as high risk.

“This project is a victim centred method of providing a proportionate response to those victims considered to be at high risk focussing on the safety of victims and the children of victims.”

Group Commander Keith Pascoe said: “Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Services Strategic aims include making the public safe and this project helps us focus on doing just that.

“We are delighted to work closely with Devon & Cornwall Police and all our partner agencies to respond to our communities needs and to do all we can to make them safer.”

Members of the public are encouraged to report cases of domestic abuse by ringing 101 or 999 in emergencies. Cases can also be referred online via the Devon & Cornwall Police website www.devon-cornwall.police.uk or anonymously via crime stoppers 0800 555 111.