A PILOT scheme providing specialist and dedicated support to victims of domestic abuse in Halton is being rolled out across Cheshire.

The new initiative has been hailed a success after helping dozens of victims in Runcorn.

Police officers will work with independent domestic violence advocates as part of a domestic abuse early intervention and victim support initiative for those suffering from abuse involving intimate partners.

Together, they will assess the domestic abuse incidents that have been reported to police and carry out follow-up visits to each victim providing specialist information, advice and support.

Detective Chief Inspector Gareth Lee, Cheshire Police’s lead for domestic abuse, said: “The pilot scheme has been extremely effective having already helped dozens of victims in Runcorn and I’m pleased it is going to be rolled out to other victims across Cheshire to enable them to receive the same dedicated support.

“Working alongside independent advocates has been imperative in helping us to engage more with victims, giving them the confidence to open up to officers while at the same time being given specialist and ongoing support.

“Our commitment in protecting victims of domestic abuse is paramount and I want to reach out to those who need our help and support. We are here for you, please make contact with us.”

A plain clothed officer will meet the victim face-to-face with an advocate and provide a quick and supportive service, along with a better understanding of the process.

While police officers work on the investigation, the advocate can provide a dedicated service to the victim, not only supporting them emotionally but also helping them keep safe and secure and gain financial independence.

Victims who have experienced the new team approach said they felt more supported and welcomed the quicker response.

One victim said: “Because of the situation I was in they’ve actually kind of helped me restart my life again in a different area. It’s nice to be able to go out and nobody know me or know the gossip and to know that I can feel safe walking about.”

“I feel safe, I feel like I’m coming back. I feel like me a bit more now. My little girl’s gone back to preschool so knowing she’s safe, where she is, knowing that he hasn’t got a clue where she is.”

“I feel more confident in ringing people, that’s the main thing for me and actually being able to ask for help.”

“I think it’s made me more confident, because before I would never tell people. I used to think I’m not telling anyone about the abuse and I never used to go out and stuff or tell anyone my problems but now I feel like I can talk to the police when I need to.”

The scheme will initially run county-wide for the next nine months.

It will be available during the weekend and on Monday day shifts – often the peak periods for reported domestic abuse incidents.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire David Keane said: “Tackling domestic abuse in Cheshire is extremely important to me.

“One of my policing priorities is to support victims and protect the vulnerable and I am extremely proud of the partnership work being carried out by IDVAs and Cheshire officers.

“Having the courage to speak out about this terrible crime is a very brave thing to do and this scheme provides crucial support, advice and understanding at a time when victims need it most.”

Halton Cllr Dave Cargill, board member for community safety, said: “The findings from the evaluation of the Operation Enhance pilot are very encouraging.

“It is good news that it is going to be rolled out so that more victims of domestic abuse can receive this dedicated support to enable them to get their lives back on track and remain safe both emotionally and physically.”

Victims of domestic abuse should contact Cheshire Police on 101 or in an emergency ring 999.

To contact a specialist service call the national 24/7 Helpline on 0808 2000 247.