To approve the approach to recommissioning of a domestic abuse support service and the outline of a new Domestic Abuse Strategy for Herefordshire.

The commissioned domestic abuse support service provided by West Mercia Women's Aid is due to conclude in March 2019. This report details the intention to commission a redesigned domestic abuse service from April 2019 and provides an outline of the revised domestic abuse strategy for Herefordshire.

A shared strategic vision and set of priorities across agencies is required to tackle the root causes and consequences of domestic abuse, which is a complex, pan-organisational challenge. Within this, specialist services for victims and their children who seek support is vital to minimise harm and maximise positive outcomes, focussed on safety, building resilience and empowerment. A commissioned service is required which prevents the needs of victims and their children from escalating. The service will provide a single point of contact and access to experienced professionals who understand the risks and challenges faced by victims, assisting them to locate the right services and information to meet their needs.

Prevention, early intervention and co-ordination of support is key to prevent the risk and level of need from escalating and ultimately costing more to organisations across the system.