Warwickshire News Mine

WADA - Warwickshire Against Domestic Abuse (a group of over 30 agencies working together in to tackle domestic abuse in Warwickshire) created the Talk 2 Someone website http://www.talk2someone.org in 2008. The secure website with secrecy controls brings together a range of support information for anyone affected by domestic abuse.

The site is regularly praised as an example of good practice and so far four local authorities in the country have been so impressed that they have adopted its layout and content.

Torbay Council and Devon County Council, Hertfordshire County Council, and Strathclyde Police Authority have all modelled their websites on Warwickshire’s format.

Sue Ingram, Warwickshire’s Domestic Abuse Manager and spokesperson for WADA was pleased that the website had impressed colleagues in other authorities. She said: “All the agencies involved in WADA inputted into the content of the Talk 2 Someone website which is both comprehensive and easy to navigate.

“This was recognised by the other authorities who have requested permission to adapt the style and content for their own areas, in many cases the translation has been verbatim.

“A unique feature of the website is the ‘covering your tracks’ section which prevents the site appearing in web browser histories and is important to victims who need to be extremely cautious when taking the first steps to leave an abusive relationship.

“The other authorities were also keen to duplicate this and we have agreed. We have been extremely pleased to share our knowledge and expertise across county boundaries in this way which will help more people will be able to get access to the support they need.”

Warwickshire County Councillor Richard Hobbs, Portfolio Holder for Community Protection added: “Through working together, agencies in Warwickshire do all a great job to support and protect people affected by domestic abuse and its far reaching consequences for families.

“It is pleasing to see some of this good practice acknowledged by other authorities and we are happy to work with them to help tackle the issue further afield.”

WADA’s Talk 2 Someone campaign provides a number of ways to seek help and information regarding domestic abuse including a free helpline number 0800 408 1552, available between 8am and 8pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 5pm Saturday.

There is also a website – http://www.talk2someone.org.uk - which offers information and support for victims, families, friends and neighbours as well as perpetrators, who may be looking to turn things around. Last year 110 people sought counselling to change their behaviour.

If you are in immediate danger contact Warwickshire Police by dialling 999 -. Warwickshire Police can also be contacted on 01926 415000.

Link to WCC