FAQs

The purpose of the strategy is to set out the Safer BCP (The Community Safety Partnership) commitment to provide safe accommodation for survivors of domestic abuse. To identify the priority areas of work for Safer BCP around safe accommodation over the next 5 years reflecting survivors' and stakeholder's input. 

Types of accommodation include refuges, specialist support schemes for people with a range of needs, sanctuary schemes (additional security measures with specialised support so people can remain in their home) and temporary housing with support.

Individuals can access safe accommodation through referrals from support services and local authorities, or they can self-refer. More information on how to access these services can be found below:

• Accommodation services(External link)
• Help with domestic abuse(External link)

People can access specialist domestic abuse support which includes both emotional and practical support and housing related support. Additionally, peer support is available to help reduce feelings of isolation.

The aim of this Strategy is to prevent future incidents of domestic abuse, ensure the safety and wellbeing of survivors of domestic abuse, hold perpetrators accountable and provide a coordinated community response to domestic abuse.  

By promoting healthy relationships. addressing harmful behaviour and creating a culture that does not tolerate domestic abuse.

The purpose of this Strategy is to create long-term solutions by addressing the root causes of domestic abuse. This involves holding perpetrators to account and supporting them to change their behaviour.  

Yes, with the right interventions such as behaviour change programmes and support, individuals can learn to change their behaviour. However, it requires a genuine commitment to change and on-going support.  

Acknowledge their behaviour, seek professional help, attend a behaviour programme and commit to on-going self-reflection and improvement. More information can be found here: UP2U Creating Healthy Relationships(External link) 

Legal consequences can include arrest, restraining orders, loss of custody of children and imprisonment.  

BCP Council’s Community Safety Partnership, along with various BCP Council departments such as housing, adult and children’s social care, police, criminal justice agencies, community organisations and support services are all responsible for implementing the strategy.

Call 999 if you are reporting a crime that is in progress or if someone is in immediate danger. For non-emergencies, you can call the police on 101. You can also find help here: Help with domestic abuse | BCP(External link) 

It is crucial to address domestic abuse for the safety and wellbeing of survivors and their families. It helps break the cycle of abuse and promotes healthier relationships. This includes holding perpetrators accountable for their behaviour. Would it be good to add something about treating perpetrators of abuse too? 

There are a range of services available across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. More information can be found here: Help with domestic abuse | BCP(External link) 

Offer a listening ear, provide information on local domestic abuse services and encourage them to seek professional help. It is important to be supportive and non-judgemental. Help with domestic abuse | BCP(External link) 

The community can raise awareness, support local services and create a culture that does not tolerate abuse. Community education and involvement are key to prevention.  

Approach the person with care and concern, express your worries and offer support. Provide them with information on local domestic abuse services(External link) and encourage them to seek help but respect their decision and autonomy.