Domestic abuse policy

3.1 At WHBC we believe that nobody should live in fear of violence, abuse, stalking or harassment so our priority is to provide an accessible and responsive service.

3.2 We will take a harm centred and victim focussed approach to deal with cases of domestic abuse empathetically, sensitively and in accordance with the victims’ needs.

3.3 We will work in partnership to ensure that survivors of domestic abuse and their children receive the support that they need, when they need it, and to ensure that services are joined-up and well sign-posted.

3.4 We will raise awareness of domestic abuse to educate, reduce recurrences and prevent incidents of domestic abuse occurring.

3.5 Whilst women and girls are disproportionately affected by all forms of domestic abuse, we will support any individual experiencing such issues irrespective of age, gender, sexuality, disability, ethnicity, religion, social background, or any other protected characteristics identified in the Equality Act 2010.