Press Release

BETTER SERVICE FOR VICTIMS

20 March 2007

People who experience domestic violence and substance misuse in Camden are to receive better support following the launch of a new handbook for professionals.

Substance misuse and domestic violence can often happen together. A person committing domestic violence may blame their abusive behaviour on alcohol or drugs. Survivors of domestic violence may drink or use drugs to try to block out the pain, fear or isolation they may be feeling.

The handbook aims to prevent and reduce the two destructive problems by ensuring professionals have the practical skills and knowledge to help people. The booklet has been produced by a variety of Camden support agencies who deal with substance misuse and domestic violence (1).

Often victims of domestic violence, for many reasons, find it difficult to reveal they are being abused and it needs a professional to ask the right questions, in the right way.

By doing this support workers hope people will feel safer and more comfortable in opening up, so they can offer the best possible help.

The new handbook – Refining the Routes: Domestic Violence and Substance Misuse - Policies, Procedures and Protocols for Partnership Work in Camden – includes:

·        A step-by-step guide to dealing with domestic violence and substance misuse clients with do’s and don’ts. This includes do not ask about domestic violence or substance misuse if another person is present as it may prevent them from opening up about their problems therefore hindering the help offered.

·        Explaining the practical process of referring clients between domestic violence services and substance misuse services, and vice versa.

The handbook was launched last week, March 15, 2007, at the London Irish Centre in Camden Town.

Cllr Ben Rawlings, Executive Member for Community Safety at Camden Council, said:

“Nearly 3,000 incidents of domestic violence were reported in Camden during last year, however it is believed the real number is about four times this. Domestic violence and substance misuse are destructive problems that not only seriously hurt individuals but also their families, communities and society as a whole.

“This handbook aims to ultimately improve the way in which the council, and other agencies, support victims of domestic violence or substance misuse by having all the right information and advice to hand.”

Superintendent Roger Smalley from the Metropolitan Police said:

“We fully support the aims of this booklet. We are totally committed with our partners to drive down domestic violence and substance misuse. The close links the police have with the different support groups will be enhanced by the clear guidelines and joint actions highlighted within the handbook.”