Why it matters: The Martlesham-based charity, which has been providing domestic abuse support for more than 12 years, will now reach more survivors through a two-year contract to deliver its Next Steps Service across Suffolk.
The details: The new service supports all cases identified by police at a 'Standard' risk level, in accordance with Suffolk's three-tier risk system. More than 60 cases have been referred to the charity since the service launched in October.
Amanda Page, operational manager at the charity, explained how the service works: "Every referral we receive will get an initial call where we'll put together a safety plan. From there it is very much about what each victim needs from us – unpacking their immediate wants and needs before offering an ongoing support service where we can put together a family support plan."
The charity takes a collaborative, multi-agency approach to ensure all agencies involved in supporting victims are coordinated.
What's included: Those referred to Anglia Care Trust by the police will also have access to the charity's range of other services, including housing and money advice.
What they're saying: "For someone sat at a 'Standard' risk, it's impacting their daily lives. They are being subjected to awful abuse," said Amanda Page. "We're an accredited service with the experience behind us and a model that works. Feedback from those we have worked with includes that the support we give can 'literally be life-saving'. It is really impactful."
How to access support: Access to the Next Steps Service is only possible through referral from Suffolk Constabulary. However, the charity continues to provide its other domestic abuse services available for self-referral, including the 24-hour helpline on 0800 977 5690 and www.suffolkdahelpline.org.uk.
The bottom line: The expansion represents a significant increase in the charity's capacity to support domestic abuse survivors across Suffolk, with police referrals ensuring those at 'Standard' risk receive coordinated, multi-agency support alongside the charity's existing services.
