Pembrokeshire County Council sets aside funds to combat domestic abuse

More than £60,000 has been set aside by the County Council to combat domestic abuse in Pembrokeshire.

The council has earmarked £61,385 in its 2009/10 budget to tackle domestic abuse, cabinet member for the voluntary sector, health and well-being, Cllr Sian James told a recent full council meeting.

The figure was revealed in response to questions submitted by Neyland county councillor Maureen Molyneux about the council’s current provision for domestic abuse victims and whether measures were being taken to ensure a co-ordinated approach to the issue.

Cllr James said the issue of domestic violence was very important and also very complex.

“It is important that we devote enough time to exploring and understanding this before reaching any conclusions and as a result it may be appropriate for an overview and scrutiny committee to consider adding the issue to its work programme,” she said.

Cllr James said Dyfed-Powys Police has a proactive, zero-tolerance approach to domestic abuse, which includes a special magistrates court which fast tracks cases.

The police also advise the county council’s child care service of domestic abuse cases because of a link to other forms of abuse.

A housing refuge managed by Pembrokeshire Housing Association and the county council also funds a domestic abuse co-ordinator, a move-on support service and produces a domestic abuse newsletter.

Also, a women’s outreach worker is managed by Cymdeithas Tai Hafan.

A 12-week programme starting in April is set to challenge acceptance of abusive behaviour and aim to build the confidence of those who have experienced abuse.

“The community safety partnership, chaired by the director of social care and housing, also has this as one of its strategic priorities,” added Cllr James.

Cllr Molyneux said gaps in the provision of services still need to be filled.