Access to domestic abuse support is being strengthened in Trafford after incidents soared during the pandemic and after England games.
Ahead of England’s game against Denmark in Euro 2020 last week, Trafford Domestic Abuse Services shared the shocking statistics that show domestic abuse rates increase by 26pc whenever England’s football team win a match.
If they lose, that goes up to 38pc – and that’s just the incidents that are officially reported.
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Widespread concerns were raised across the UK at the start of the pandemic last year when the imposition of lockdown forced domestic abuse victims to be stuck at home with their abusers.
Now, to try and reach those who are struggling locally, ways to contact Trafford council’s adult social care teams have been simplified to make it easier for anyone wanting to report abuse, ask for help on behalf of a loved one or to find out what support is out there.
The webpage – https://myway.trafford.gov.uk – has been launched this week to try and reach victims of abuse, domestic or otherwise, across the borough.
Coun Jo Harding, executive member for adult services at Trafford council, said: “This is about us helping people to access the right support at the times in their lives when they most need it.
“So, if your mum is now struggling to cope and now needs support, or you worried that a colleague is the victim of domestic abuse, the website is really simple to use and the referral process is straightforward.
“This enables us to be able to respond quickly and get the right support in place.”
Many partners – such as doctors, housing providers, hospital trusts or health trusts – report safeguarding issues or requests for support directly to the council. The website also enables them to report concerns quickly and easily too.
For anyone without access to the internet, the adult social care team can be contacted on 0161 912 5199 Mondays to Fridays from 8.40am to 4.30pm.
There is also an Adult Protection Line which can be contacted on 0161 912 5135 – for anyone needing advice regarding an adult who they feel is at risk of abuse or neglect.
If anyone suspects someone is being abused and is in immediate danger, the council has advised they should ring the emergency services on 999.
It is understood changes to Trafford’s adult social care’s referral process are also being made – making it easier for partners and residents to report any concerns to the council directly.
Coun Harding added: “There are many adults in this borough who have caring needs, support someone with care needs, or are maybe at risk of abuse.
“We have brought about these changes to ensure that any concerns can be dealt with quickly and comprehensively to ensure everyone gets help when they need it.”
Trafford Domestic Abuse Services can be contacted via their Facebook page, by calling 0161 872 7368 or by dropping into their offices at Gorse Hill Studios, Cavendish Road, Stretford, Manchester, M32 0PS.
For more information, TDAS’s website can be found here.
