Government committed to tackling domestic violence - McGimpsey and Goggins

The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety and the Northern Ireland Office have joined forces to raise awareness of the serious issue of domestic violence.

An action plan to address the issues will soon be launched and the Department of Health will be establishing an Inter-Ministerial Group to co-ordinate policy in this important area.

The news comes as delegates from statutory agencies and the voluntary sector gather in Guernsey to share best practice in order to improve services for domestic violence victims.

Michael McGimpsey said: “Government is absolutely committed to tackling domestic violence - the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) works closely with the Northern Ireland Office (NIO) in developing initiatives to help raise awareness and to ensure that victims have access to services when they need them most. We will soon be launching an action plan for addressing domestic violence and a guide for political representatives. I also recently announced my intention to establish an Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic Violence for Northern Ireland to ensure that this issue is given the priority it deserves.

“It is right and proper that we invest in encouraging victims to come forward - but we must also strive to prevent these crimes from happening - that is why the next media campaign will focus on perpetrators. Our message is simple - police can and will proceed with charges for domestic violence even where the victim was unwilling or too frightened to press charges.

Paul Goggins added: “It is a tragic and shocking fact that as many as 11,000 children in Northern Ireland live with domestic violence every day; that five people are killed each year and over 700 families are re-housed as a result of violence in the home. Those people who suffer from domestic violence are other silent victims - that has to change. Raising awareness and encouraging more victims to come forward is vital.

“A great deal of good work has already been achieved through the Domestic Violence strategy. We must build on this work and find new ways to deal with this pressing problem. I am confident that today’s conference will be beneficial to all those who attend and result in improved service for domestic violence victims.”

Notes to Editors:

1. Raising the Standards (RTS) is an Inter-Governmental initiative to help address domestic violence throughout the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland by sharing information on policy initiatives, co-ordinating research and developing good practice to mutually raise the standards of services to victims.
2. RTS brings together representatives from GB, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. Committee meetings are held quarterly and conferences have been held approximately every 18 months, rotating amongst regions. Belfast hosted the last conference in December 2005 and the 2007 conference is being hosted by Guernsey on 8-9 October 2007.
3. This year’s conference theme is 'Domestic Abuse – The Costs and Consequences to Business and Society' and each region delivers a 30 minute presentation, with Annie Campbell, Director of Northern Ireland Women’s Aid Federation presenting on behalf of Northern Ireland. Her presentation will focus on the ‘You and Me Mum’ programme for mothers supporting children and young people who have lived with domestic violence.
4. A 24-hour free-phone Domestic Violence Helpline is open to anyone affected by domestic violence. Anyone can suffer - so anyone can call 0800 917 1414.
5. Press enquiries to the DHSSPS Press Office on 028 9052 0575, out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer on pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.