Plymouth Domestic Abuse Services
Plymouth Domestic Abuse Services (PDAS) joins Campaign to Break the Silence on domestic abuse.
The campaign is being led by the city’s former police chief Morris Watts, backed by agencies responsible for crime reduction and community in the city.
Morris says: "We often hear people say: 'why don't they leave?', but it is complex.
"People who are regularly abused lose confidence in themselves. Even though they are frightened of the abuser, they often still care for their partner. They feel ashamed, worn down, emotionally and physically. There are practical concerns such as money, accommodation, their children. They are deliberately isolated from family and friends.
"They don't know where to go or who will help them. It is a massive issue, and this campaign aims to ensure they know there is help out there, that there are people who want to help them restore their confidence."
Plymouth council awarded Carr-Gomm a 3-year £1.2 million contract, in spring 2008, to deliver a new, integrated and flexible service for survivors of abuse.
The service provides:
- Emergency housing for up to six-months. This includes a Refuge for 11 families and 13 purpose built homes around the city.
- Crisis intervention – independent domestic violence advisors visit individuals in a safe space and provide intensive support to help minimise long and short terms risks
- Support for clients going through the specialist domestic violence court system
Plymouth Domestic Abuse Services (PDAS) brings together existing services previously provided by the Women’s Refuge and Women’s Aid to provide a holistic approach to helping people living in abusive relationships or those at risk of violence. The service supports women, and men, who increasingly recognised as vulnerable to domestic abuse.
Local Service Manager, PDAS, Mandy Pearce said: “Bringing together all three services will mean that we can offer clients a more flexible and responsive service that meets their needs. Closer working relationships with other agencies will improve case management and help provide a seamless service.”
For more information
Email:
PDAS Tel: 01752 252033
Refuge Tel: 01752 562286
