Published: 01/06/2021
COPELAND Council is currently recruiting two full-time officers as part of its life-saving domestic abuse support service.
The Council introduced its specialist service in 2018 and has so far helped more than 300 men, women and children to leave abusive homes.
In addition to the roles, the Council has also increased its number of emergency properties to ensure residents, and their children, have a place to stay. These properties have been designed with added security measures to make victims feel safe.
The two Specialist Crisis Prevention and Support Officers are being sought due to the recent introduction of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, which places a duty on local authorities in England to provide safe accommodation and support to victims of domestic abuse and their children.
Copeland Council introduced a discretionary service more than three years ago after identifying a need for further support for victims of domestic abuse and sexual exploitation. It continues to work in partnership with third sector organisations to ensure victims have access to the wide range of support they need.
The demand for the service increased by more than 100 per cent in 20/21, in comparison to the previous 12 months.
Mike Starkie, Mayor of Copeland, said: “We are currently searching for two experienced and knowledgeable individuals who can support victims of domestic abuse in Copeland.
“Over the last three years we have supported hundreds of men, women and children to leave abusive homes and the life-saving work of our incredible team is at the heart of our work as a council, supporting the most vulnerable members of our community.
“The introduction of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 has enabled us to enhance our support to those suffering behind closed doors, and bolster our already fantastic service.
“We also hope that the additional support available through the new act will see more people coming forward to receive help, and we are ensuring that we have a well-resourced team to provide the support needed when people are ready.
“We are incredibly keen to recruit two empathetic and compassionate individuals that can join our team, and would encourage anyone interested in the roles to apply now.”
For more information and to apply for the roles visit www.copeland.gov.uk. For an informal chat please contact Gemma Coward, Housing Options Team Leader on 01946 598300
The application deadline is Friday, June 4, at 12 noon.
For residents experiencing domestic abuse please contact the Council’s specialist team on 01946 598300 or at info@copeland.gov.uk.
