New report reveals scale of domestic abuse in Merseyside

The study estimates that over 117,000 people,  mostly women and children, experience domestic abuse in Merseyside each year.

Transcript

00:00A new report published has laid bare the scale of domestic abuse across Merseyside

00:04and issued a stark warning about the strain on services trying to help.

00:09Commissioned by Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Sporrell,

00:12the report is the most comprehensive of its kind for the region

00:15and it's calling for urgent long-term investments.

00:19The study carried out by Women's Aid and Liverpool John Moores University

00:22draws on the voices of frontline professionals, specialists, service providers and commissioners.

00:27It estimates that over 117,000 people, mostly women and children,

00:34experience domestic abuse in Merseyside each year.

00:37But just 10,000 victim survivors are receiving support annually,

00:41often from overstretched organisations, some working beyond safe capacity.

00:46The report reveals serious issues from short-term funding and high staff turnover

00:51to long-awaiting lists and major gaps in support.

00:55The study stresses the importance of having specialist gender-specific services,

01:00the need for greater support for children and young people and for marginalised groups.

01:05Police Commissioner Emily Sporrell says the system is under huge pressure

01:09and must be backed by stable long-term funding.

01:14She says we need a coordinated approach that ensures every victim can access help when they need it

01:19and services have the resources to plan for the future.

01:23The report makes 20 recommendations to improve funding, coordination and support across Merseyside,

01:30forming part of a wider plan to tackle violence against women and girls.

01:35With domestic abuse rates remaining high, this report provides a roadmap,

01:39but experts say real change will only come with action and investment from all levels.

01:44We'll see you next time.