High Risk Domestic Abuse Offenders Targeted Through New Cumbria Drive Project
Cumbria's highest risk domestic abuse offenders are being targeted under a new multi agency initiative designed to improve victim safety while challenging and changing the behaviour of repeat perpetrators.
The project brings together Cumbria Police, Victim Support, and a range of partner agencies to identify individuals responsible for the most harmful and persistent cases of domestic abuse. Rather than focusing solely on victims, the initiative also works directly with offenders in an effort to reduce repeat offending and prevent future abuse.
The official launch took place during a conference at Rheged near Penrith, where professionals working in safeguarding and criminal justice joined people with lived experience of domestic abuse to discuss the new approach. The event was opened by Assistant Chief Constable Dave Stalker, who highlighted the importance of coordinated action to tackle domestic abuse across Cumbria.
Detective Sergeant Cheryl Skelton described the Drive Project as a police led, multi agency process focused on Cumbria's highest risk and repeat domestic abuse perpetrators. She said the national programme aims to end domestic abuse by disrupting offending, challenging harmful behaviour, and encouraging lasting behavioural change while prioritising the safety of adult and child victim survivors.
The Drive Project combines intensive one to one case management with coordinated intervention from multiple agencies. Measures may include practical actions to reduce opportunities for abuse, alongside support and supervision designed to hold perpetrators accountable and encourage long term behavioural change. All activity is centred on improving the immediate and future safety of victims.
The initiative is funded by the Home Office through the Cumbria Office of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, with total funding of £714,751. This includes £188,980 allocated during the 2025 to 2026 financial year and £525,771 for 2026 to 2027. Cumbria is one of 15 new areas across the UK selected to introduce the programme.
Cumbria Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner David Allen said protecting victims remains the highest priority but added that long term community safety also depends on addressing the behaviour of repeat offenders. He urged anyone experiencing domestic abuse to contact police on 101, or 999 in an emergency, while reminding those unwilling to report incidents to police that support is available through Victim Support Cumbria.
The Drive Project is currently being expanded across England and Wales as part of the Government's ambition to reduce violence against women and girls by 50 per cent over the next decade. Officials believe the combination of early intervention, multi agency cooperation, and sustained work with perpetrators will help break the cycle of domestic abuse while providing greater protection for victims throughout Cumbria.
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