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Police Authority supports Solihull helpline for domestic abuse
13 February 2012
PRESS RELEASE ISSUED BY WEST MIDLANDS POLICE AUTHORITY:
West Midlands Police Authority has awarded a payment of £750 from its Community Initiatives Fund to Make a Better Life Trust (MABL).
The Solihull based volunteer run organisation was hit by cuts to local authority funding, but with the financial support of the Police Authority and other organisations, it now plans to re-establish a helpline, initially for 15 hours per week, 10am-1pm Monday to Friday.
The MABL helpline will offer callers, regardless of gender, information, advice, listening, emotional support and referral to other agencies where appropriate. It will aim to provide a safe, supportive environment where victims may feel reassured to report the abuse to the police.
National statistics indicate that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men will be affected by domestic abuse at some time in their lifetime. Solihull has a population of 199,517, of which 102,834 are women and 96,683 are men (2001 Census). This means that within the borough there are potentially 25,708 females and 16,114 males who may be affected by domestic abuse at some time. This statistic alone highlights the importance of having a dedicated domestic abuse helpline to support people within the borough of Solihull.
Police Authority Member Julia Lyle JP said:
"The Police Authority is pleased to have this opportunity to give support to MABL's helpline, which will encourage more families and their victims to seek help. It will be operated by trained volunteers who will offer emotional support, practical help and advice on accommodation and legal matters."
In the photograph, Police Authority Member Julia Lyle JP (right) presents a cheque for £750 to MABL Trustee Linda Oates.
