Funding announced to develop new domestic abuse service in Southend, Essex and Thurrock

£450,000 has been allocated to the Southend, Essex and Thurrock Domestic Abuse Partnership for a new ‘Perpetrator Pathway’ service which will see the sum spread over the next three years.

The service will direct people who have concerns about their behaviour, as well as family or friends who may also be worried, to services and support which can help them

Chair of the Southend, Essex and Thurrock Domestic Abuse Board, Cllr Dick Madden, said: “Any money we can put into driving down domestic abuse in the county is a welcomed addition.

“This extra funding will enable us to create a clear route for perpetrators to get the right help which can help them to change their abusive behaviour. It will also give other concerned family, friends, professionals or members of the public a direct route so they can get advice and support, which we hope will make a real difference.”

The Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex, Jane Gardner, who sits on the Board said: “This is excellent news and I look forward to seeing the benefits of this additional funding. Breaking the cycle of domestic abuse is one of the objectives in the Police and Crime Plan.

“Changing offenders’ behaviour through robust change programmes is one way we can do this. We know that one in four perpetrators of domestic abuse are repeat offenders. Intervening early and addressing their behaviour will help to keep people from harm.”

It is anticipated the service will launch in late September 2017.