A NEW facility dedicated to supporting those living with domestic abuse has opened in Stockton as part of an on-going strategy to reduce the problem and protect victims.

Harbour Support Services, who support victims with Stockton Borough Council, have opened a new office on Bishopton Road, Stockton.

The move conincidentally follows two high profile cases of child neglect from the Stockton area, including a boy who went half-blind through neglect and another boy who committed suicide.

Both cases were reported across the country but, in fact, the council's recently adopted Domestic Abuse Strategy for 2014 to 2017 reveals that incidents of domestic abuse in the borough of Stockton actually appear to be falling.

Statistics in the report show that there were 3,513 domestic abuse incidents during the 2013 to 2014 financial year compared to 4,144 the previous year. That meant incidents in the borough are below the national average figure, which would be about 4,200 for a Stockton's population of 192,000. That compares to 2011 and 2012 when the area had a worse than average figure.

The figures, provided by Cleveland Police, show that the worst area for incidents of domestic violence in 2013 to 2014 in the borough was the town centre with about 250 followed by the Newtown area with more than 150. The best areas with fewer than 20 incidents were the little populated 'northern parishes' area to the north of the borough, 'western parishes' villages to the west of Stockton and Billingham West.

The council's adopted strategy focuses on working closely with other agencies, particularly the police, health and Thirteen housing group. The policy was shaped through consultation groups organised by Harbour with people who have experienced domestic violence and abuse, their families and perpetrators. Social care staff working with families affected by domestic abuse were also asked for their views.

Stockton council’s cabinet member for adult services and health, Councillor Jim Beall, officially opened the new office with the words of the local vision: “‘Domestic abuse is socially unacceptable. Everyone deserves to, and should, live without fear. Harbour’s new office is a safe, welcoming place where people can go to receive confidential advice, help and support about domestic abuse. We are delighted to have this service in Stockton to protect people from harm.”

Harbour will also offer support for those who perpetrate domestic violence and abuse to enable them to be aware of thought processes, change behaviour, reduce reoffending and improve the safety of others. The charity also provides advice to those worried about a friend or relative who they believe may be in an abusive relationship.

Harbour can be contacted 24 hours-a-day at 01642-553323 or stocktonrefuge@myharbour.org.uk