Redbridge to train staff to help tackle 'national epidemic ' of violence against women and girls

Redbridge Council has taken a proactive stance in the fight against domestic abuse, becoming the first local authority in the country to mandate domestic abuse training for all staff and councillors.

This bold move sets a new standard and reassures the public of the Council's commitment to tackling this issue. The Council's workforce of 2,500 officers will undergo comprehensive training, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to recognise signs of abuse and intervene effectively.

Redbridge Council stands out as a pioneer in its response to violence against women and girls (VAWG). Redbridge became the first local authority in London to issue a fixed penalty notice of £100 to a man for harassing a woman in the street.

The £100 fine was issued to a man in Ilford for sexual harassment using the council’s Public Space Protection Order to enforce against catcalling and harassment.

The Leader of Redbridge Council, Cllr Kam Rai, said: "It's essential that we act now to tackle the epidemic level of violence against women and girls that we're witnessing across the country.

"Council officers encounter many vulnerable people in their day-to-day roles. Alongside those needs, we know that other issues arise. By offering staff this training programme and the right tools to understand what's going on, we can provide the correct type of intervention, including support for those suffering domestic abuse.

"We are open and eager to engage in discussions with other local authorities interested in our service model or adopting our training programme. We believe that by working together, we can make a significant impact in the fight against domestic abuse."

Emma Pattison, Head of Service for Domestic Abuse and Strategic Lead for VAWG, said: "I am delighted to have driven the creation and delivery of this training module as part of our innovative response to tackling domestic abuse in Redbridge.

"The training is gripping and delves into the nuances of domestic abuse—it isn't just bog-standard training. This training tackles the myths and barriers associated with domestic abuse. It has also paved the way for the Council's employees to talk about their experiences of abuse."

Help is also available for those who want to address their abusive behaviours and for those who are worried about their behaviour and wish to address it.

The Council's award-winning Reach Out service, recognised as a 'centre of excellence,' provides high-quality support to those experiencing domestic abuse. Reach Out is a support service for any adult or child aged 16 or over in Redbridge who is experiencing domestic abuse.

The service provides practical help and emotional support to victims/survivors, including children and young people who have been affected by domestic abuse.

Find out more at Reach Out.