It may have taken forty years to get there but Domestic Violence is now very much on the agenda. In her speech in November 2003 the Queen outlined the importance of tackling Domestic Violence as a society. The Government introduced the Domestic Violence Crime and Victims Bill in the House of Lords on the 1st December 2003 and aims to put victims at the heart of the Criminal Justice System. This highlights that it is the responsibility of us all to end the suffering of victims of Domestic Violence.

The Haven Wolverhampton has been committed to this work for 30 years. An important part of highlighting the horrors suffered by our client group is breaking down the barriers of secrecy,
stereotype and myth around Domestic Violence by raising public awareness of the issues. In line with this The Haven continues to offer placements to social work students and currently have five students working directly with residents, including our first BA Social Work student. This arrangement is reciprocally beneficial to us and the students, we offer a broad range of learning opportunities to students and I continue to say that we gain from their enthusiasm and fresh ideas.

We have always been involved with training and awareness raising work around the issues of Domestic Violence within the West Midlands area. Staff from The Haven are often out and about in the community undertaking this role. Last year saw the training we offer develop into a more formal structure. This is necessary for both consistency of standard and further development and we are now able to offer training packages around Domestic Violence, be it a basic awareness raising session or the impact of Domestic Violence in the workplace , be it three hours or three days. If you are interested in finding out more simply contact either Alison or Andrea on 01902 572140.

Alison Worton-Jones

Visit our website at www.havenrefuge.org.uk for details of how you can make a difference.

Our business office number is 01902 572140, fax: 01902 572144.
For referrals and 24 hour emergency assistance only, please call 01902 713001.
Business Administration Office:
26, Chapel Ash,
Wolverhampton.

You can also email us at info@havenrefuge.org.uk