A new strategy has been launched to tackle domestic abuse in Milton Keynes, as it remains an under-reported crime.
The strategy has been drawn from a partnership including Milton Keynes Council, Thames Valley Police, the NHS and local domestic abuse organisation MK ACT.
The Milton Keynes Domestic Abuse Prevention Strategy (2020 – 2025) sets out priorities and new measures for making Milton Keynes a safer place, with more education on the issues, greater support for victims and zero tolerance of abusive behaviour. The strategy has the voices of people who have experienced domestic violence at its core and has been developed with them and with support agencies.
Milton Keynes Council has funded local organisation MK ACT to provide domestic abuse support services, including a confidential refuge for women and children, since 2003.
The Council is also introducing a housing specialist to support families fleeing domestic abuse. A new pilot ‘sanctuary’ scheme will introduce an option for people who do not live with an abuser to remain safely in their homes, following an assessment and installation of security measures. Thames Valley Police is leading a domestic abuse champion’s scheme with partners as part of raising awareness of domestic abuse.
In parallel, MK ACT will be supporting households with temporary accommodation. Individuals or families can move on to new permanent accommodation or return to their previous home where it is safe to do so. This is particularly suitable for people where a refuge may not be the best option.
Councillor Hannah O’Neill, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: “We must do everything we can to prevent people from experiencing or perpetrating domestic abuse in the future. Educating our young people on positive, healthy relationships is key alongside flexible support services that provide options for everyone, regardless of their circumstances.
Every day, domestic abuse impacts thousands of lives across the country yet so much goes unreported. We want anyone in an abusive situation to understand they are not alone. Help is available and this crime will not be tolerated in Milton Keynes.”
Kelly Gardner, Deputy Police Commander for Milton Keynes, said: “This is a horrendous crime impacting families across Milton Keynes. Thames Valley Police welcome the preventative approach to domestic abuse.”
Details of the strategy can be found online at: https://www.mktogether.co.uk/.
Anyone who is in an abusive situation at home can contact the MK ACT Crisis Service Helpline on 0344 375 4307. Outside of normal working hours, the National Domestic Violence Helpline is open 24 hours on 0808 2000 247.
However, if you believe there is an immediate risk of harm to someone, or it is an emergency, always call 999. The police non-emergency number is 101.
