​Bury launches new strategy to combat domestic violence and abuse

Partners from across Bury and beyond joined forces to launch the borough’s new strategy to combat domestic violence and abuse.

The launch coincided with the international 16 Days of Action campaign to raise awareness and end violence against women and girls around the world. During this time men are asked to wear a white ribbon and pledge never to commit, excuse or remain silent about male violence against women.

The strategy was launched at Bury Town Hall by Councillor Tamoor Tariq, cabinet member for communities and safer neighbourhoods.

Also speaking at the launch were Beverley Hughes, the Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester with responsibility for policing, crime, criminal justice and fire, and Chief Inspector Phil Spurgeon from Bury.

Cllr Tariq said: “Domestic violence and abuse can affect anyone from any background. It is a multi-faceted issue with many different causes and therefore many different solutions. This is why it takes a uniquely co-ordinated approach involving all partners to develop programmes to address these issues.”

Domestic violence now comprises 14% of all crime in Bury and costs an estimated £53 million to tackle, not to mention the human cost to individuals, children and extended families.

Cllr Tariq added: “This strategy has been developed with the input of most of the people in this room and I think the priorities identified really distil what professionals, victims and everyone affected by domestic violence and abuse have told us what needs addressing to meet our over-arching aims – of creating a safer and more supportive place to live for individuals and groups at risk of domestic violence and abuse, and an informed population who know how to access help and support.

“In the current environment of austerity and uncertainty we have to work twice as hard to make a difference, but I also know that in Bury we are fortunate to have some of the most knowledgeable, hard-working and passionate people that you will come across. The work they do each and every day is why I know we have an opportunity to affect people’s lives for the better.

“I am determined that we will make great strides in the next few weeks, months and years to really get underneath this issue and make a real difference for the people of Bury.

To read the domestic violence strategy, go to https://www.bury.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=11251

ENDS

Press release issued: 30 November 2018.

Picture: At the launch of Bury’s new strategy to combat domestic violence and abuse are (from left) Cllr Tamoor Tariq, Beverley Hughes, Ch Insp Phil Spurgeon, and Karen Dolton, Bury Council’s executive director of children and young people.