PCC awards £2m contract to support victims of domestic abuse

A £2 million contract to support high-risk victims of domestic violence and abuse has been awarded to Leeway Domestic Violence and Abuse Service by Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Tim Passmore.
The contract, worth £2,070,000 over three years, with the option to extend to a five-year contract term valued at £3.45m, will deliver the countywide Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) service, providing specialist support dedicated to the individual needs of victims of domestic abuse.
High risk domestic abuse victims identified by frontline agency professionals, such as police, health or refuge workers, will be referred to the IDVA service. The advisors provide tailored support to victims of domestic abuse through effective safety planning, personal support and updates through the criminal justice system.
Tim Passmore said, “I am absolutely delighted to be able to provide this service to victims by funding this invaluable IDVA service.
“Since becoming Suffolk’s PCC in 2012 I have seen just how huge an issue domestic abuse is in the county and how important it is to make sure the victims of this crime are properly supported.
“Leeway has provided an excellent service over the past five years and I look forward to continuing to work with them in the future delivering this essential assistance for victims.”
Mandy Proctor, Chief Executive of Leeway: “We are delighted to continue to deliver this important service, supporting those who have been assessed as being at high risk of serious harm.
“The service has already supported many people across Suffolk, ensuring their safety and empowering them to build a new life free from domestic abuse, working alongside local partner agencies to achieve this.
“We hope to continue to deliver this, as well as adapting to the ever-changing support needs of service users to provide the best possible support for survivors of domestic abuse.”
Tim Passmore added, “Victims are the absolute focus of our work and it is most important that they have the confidence to report. My message to all victims is, please don’t suffer in silence, help is available. You can contact the Suffolk Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0800 977 5690 www.suffolkdahelpline.org.uk or if you don’t want to report to the police, you can call Norfolk and Suffolk Victim Care in confidence on 0300 303 3706 or 0808 16 89 111 (out of hours) and they will direct you to the most appropriate support. And remember, if you are in immediate danger, always call 999″