As part of the Domestic Abuse Whole System Approach (DAWSA) Project, a Force Control Room Domestic Abuse Worker was introduced in September 2018.
The worker offers an enhanced and bespoke response to victims of Domestic Abuse to ensure they receive advice, support and referrals to support services in a timely manner.
The introduction of this approach aimed to achieve:
- An enhanced provision of Domestic Abuse Support Services
- Reduction in the number of repeat victims by increasing engagement with support services, increasing support for police action and raising awareness of victims and perpetrators.
- Offer alternative remedies to police/criminal action.
- Increase early intervention and early engagement for domestic abuse victims.
- Reduction on pressures on partnership agencies, including Police, Health
- Provide training and advice regarding domestic abuse issues to Force Control Room staff and Police Officers
- Further strengthen communication and partnership working
- Improved victims services
The DAWSA Evaluation is due to be published in July 2019. Findings from this report will inform future commissioning priorities from April 2020 onwards.
Between now and this time, it is suggested that the Domestic Abuse Force Control Room Worker continues. This will ensure fully informed decision making.
Through the grant agreement in place with Harbour, a performance framework has been developed which will continue to provide information as to the effectiveness and value of the intervention.