Permanent out of hours support set up for Wiltshire domestic abuse victims
It should help people at more times of the day
Victims of domestic abuse in Wiltshire should be getting more permanent support in the county thanks to a new service.
Wiltshire Council have announced that a dedicated out of hours helpline has been set up to give more advice throughout the day.
Anyone seeking help or just want to report something will be able to use this number from 5pm on weekdays and across weekends.
They want to make it easier for charity Splitz who receives calls during the day.
The volume of self-referrals into Splitz had increased by 50% during the pandemic, which shows that vulnerable people do know how and where to access local help.
Currently the charity receives around 60 to 70 referrals each week for support.
Cllr Simon Jacobs, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Protection said:
“If you are suffering domestic abuse or you know someone who is, then please get in touch with Splitz or our dedicated phone line out of hours. No one should suffer in silence. It is really important everyone knows where to seek help and that it is available any time of the day.
“We have invested in training and a dedicated line to ensure people that need help can access it. Splitz is a valuable partner and this out of hours service will complement that service and reinforces the message – we are here any time of the day to provide support.”
The new dedicated out of hours line is 01225 712880 and will take over from the Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service.
This news comes a week after the Wiltshire Council cabinet agreed to spend £830k of government funding on a range of measures that meet the strict criteria for the government funding.
The funding will be used to provide support for all victims of domestic abuse and their children, regardless of their relevant protected characteristics, within relevant supported accommodation.