UP TO 80 per cent of domestic abuse perpetrators were victims of abusive behaviour as children according to recent research so a new ‘whole of family’ service providing support to victims, survivors, and children of domestic abuse is being created.  

Fearless – formerly known as the Splitz Support Service has been working across the county for more than 30 years and is working productively to break the cycle of abuse and the partnership is being developed further.

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Cllr Ian Blair-Pilling, Wiltshire Council Cabinet Member for Public Health, said: “We have enjoyed a very positive working relationship with FearLess over the years and we’re pleased to be continuing this partnership and developing it even further so that together we can support as many people as possible.

“One of our most important responsibilities, that runs through the heart of our Business Plan, is that Wiltshire is a place where we are safe. So, the work we do with FearLess is vital, and together we’ll look for innovative ways to ensure that the people who need it get the support quickly.”

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Domestic abuse can manifest in many forms and people may struggle to understand that their experiences is actually abuse. Children who witness domestic abuse can be greatly affected and display anxiety or depression, have difficulty sleeping, have temper tantrums, and internalise their distress along with other symptoms.

The new service will incorporate safe accommodation services delivered through partners GreenSquare Accord, group work, recovery services and high-risk support services.

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There will be a whole family approach via a new Children and Families Team and specialist services to victims of stalking through, and Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworker (ISAC) which will support victims through the criminal justice system.

Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said: “Making sure victims receive the high level of support they need is key to the work my office does and is at the centre of my police and crime plan.

“It’s absolutely crucial that the support networks are in place for victims and our strategy has been to increase the availability and accessibility of these services across the county, especially for those who may feel uncertain or unable to make contact with our criminal justice partners.

“It’s equally important that we work with perpetrators to reduce re-offending and to break their cycle of abuse and stop the harm they cause. The long-term benefit of this work speaks for itself.

Director of Service at FearLess, Emily Denne, said: “FearLess is incredibly proud of our Wiltshire Service, which recently achieved its Leading Lights accreditation, evidencing the exceptional service it delivers to victims and survivors of Domestic Abuse.

“We are thrilled to continue running this phenomenal service and look forward to developing and expanding it over the coming years.”

For more information, go to fearless.org.uk