New domestic abuse programme launched in Rochdale

Amanda Jackson, (Rochdale Borough Council’s strategic lead for complex dependency) Detective Chief Inspector John Harris (GMP), Jaria Hussain-lala (Rochdale Borough Council’s early help domestic abuse officer), Ian Holliday (Rochdale Borough Council’s principal community safety officer).

A new project to help and support victims of domestic abuse has been launched in the borough of Rochdale.

Programme Strive will see organisations working in partnership to reduce the number of domestic abuse incidents, while providing support services for those affected.

Early intervention in response to reported incidents will be provided and measures implemented to resolve the issues behind them.

As part of the scheme, Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) will visit victims within 48-72 hours of their initial contact with the police. They will also provide support and signposting on issues, raised by the victims themselves, such as relationships, mental health, personal safety, housing and legal advice.

The programme will also aim to increase support for victims by improving communication and partnership working between the police, Rochdale Borough Council and other support services.

A two-day training session is being offered for all those interested in being involved in Programme Strive.

Jaria Hussain-lala, early help domestic abuse officer at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “This is a great initiative and an opportunity for us to provide an enhanced and bespoke service early on, which supports our aim to reduce the frequency and impact of domestic violence and abuse on victims, children, families and communities.”

Detective Chief Inspector John Harris, of Greater Manchester Police, said: “Programme Strive is a very positive opportunity for partners across Rochdale to work together to make our community a safer place and really improve the lives of those affected by domestic abuse. Early recognition and support is key for all and together with partners we are working to adopt a victim centred approach and improve all our interventions for victims of domestic abuse.”