On Friday, 4 October, Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP met with Tia-Joanne Fenton, Lead Independent Domestic Violence Advisor for the Harrogate & Craven Independent Domestic Abuse Services (IDAS) and Kat Hawley, IDAS Domestic Abuse Practitioner. Julian met with the IDAS team to discuss the ongoing efforts of IDAS in supporting victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence in the local community, as well as the challenges they face.
IDAS is the largest specialist domestic abuse charity in Northern England, responding to 30,000 helpline calls and supporting over 10,000 individuals annually, including providing emergency accommodation to those in need.
During the meeting the group discussed several issues including the need for more flexible, community-based services to help reduce the devastating effects of domestic abuse. IDAS also highlighted concerns around victims with insecure immigration status and support available for parents of child victims of abuse.
Speaking after the meeting, Julian said: “I am grateful for the tireless work of the IDAS team supporting victims of domestic abuse in our area. More must be done to ensure these life-saving services are properly funded and supported. I will continue to champion the work IDAS is doing to protect the most vulnerable in our society.”
IDAS commented: "We are pleased Julian Smith MP is supportive of our efforts to raise awareness of domestic abuse in rural areas within his constituency. In rural areas, abuse lasts approximately 25% longer than in urban areas. The more rural the area the higher risk of harm. Rural isolation can be weaponised by abusers who may interfere with or cut people off from their support networks. Despite our efforts, demand for our services outpaces our resources. Sustainable funding for community-based domestic abuse services is vital. We know that there are many more people who need our support. Survivors escaping abuse need safe accommodation options, we provide a range of accommodation, including refuges and safe housing in volunteer hosts homes, to meet the varied needs of the people we support. We welcomed the opportunity to discuss these critical issues with Julian Smith MP and welcome his advocacy for victims living in his constituency."
Victims and professionals can contact IDAS via their helpline 03000 110 110 (North Yorkshire) between 8am-8pm Monday to Friday and between 11am-8pm on weekends and Bank Holidays.
They can also be contacted via their Live Chat available on their website - IDAS. Live Chat is available 1-4pm Monday to Friday.
