New Domestic Abuse Guide Set To Launch In South Cumbria.
A new booklet aimed at helping women affected by domestic abuse safely leave abusive situations is set to launch in South Cumbria next week.
The guide, called Fresh Thoughts, has been developed by Grange Soroptimists and will be officially launched at Women’s Community Matters at the Nan Tait Centre in Barrow on Friday, October 2. The booklet was originally created by a Soroptimist club in Dorset before being adapted for use in Cumbria. It provides practical information for women considering leaving an abusive relationship and explains some of the legal and social protections available once they decide to leave.
Advice included in the handbook covers a range of practical issues that can be important when leaving an unsafe situation. This includes guidance on deleting phone history, preparing for court and understanding the protections available through the legal system. The launch comes as concerns continue over the scale of domestic abuse across the county. According to the report, around 10,000 victims of domestic abuse were reported in Cumbria last year.
The launch event will take place from 12pm to 2pm at the Nan Tait Centre on Abbey Road. It will include contributions from High Sheriff of Cumbria Shirley Fawcett, a survivor of domestic abuse and Darren Martland, Chief Constable of Cumbria Police.
Grange Soroptimists said they were proud to have helped produce the booklet but expressed the hope that there would eventually be less need for resources of this kind. The group also praised women who manage to leave dangerous and abusive situations.
Domestic abuse can involve physical violence as well as controlling, threatening, intimidating or coercive behaviour. Cumbria Police advises people experiencing abuse that they are not responsible for what is happening and that support is available.
The launch of Fresh Thoughts is intended to give women practical information that could help them understand their options and take steps towards safety. The guide also highlights the importance of knowing what support and legal protections may be available before and after leaving an abusive relationship.
Support remains available through local organisations and the police. Cumbria Police advises people who need non-emergency assistance to contact 101, while anyone facing an immediate danger should use emergency services.
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