New panel to help domestic abuse victims

Survivors of domestic abuse are being asked to join a new panel to have their say on support for victims

A new panel is being formed to help tailor support for victims of domestic abuse.

The Middlesbrough project will include survivors of domestic and sexual violence, who are being encouraged to share their experiences so the correct support can be provided to those in need.

The Survivors' Panel, which will also include victim support professionals, is looking to hear from anyone interested in joining.

Middlesbrough Council's Deputy Mayor Philippa Storey said engagement from survivors was crucial to "turn the tide on this sort of abuse".

"Without meaningful engagement, we run the risk of making assumptions about what survivors need and want from organisations and interventions, without fully understanding their experiences," she said.

"The Survivors' Panel will be a powerful platform with victims and survivors at its heart, and one which will drive real change in our communities."

'Tangible change'

The panel is looking for new members who are survivors of domestic abuse, sexual violence, honour-based violence and exploitation, as well as supporting family and friends.

Members' views will be heard in discussions about what support is working, areas of improvement and examples of best practice.

Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke said he was proud the Labour-led council was putting the voice of survivors at the heart of the scheme.

"This collaboration has the potential to create tangible change driven by those with lived experience," he added.

"We encourage survivors from a diverse range of backgrounds to join us so that the project can be a vehicle for change for everybody."