Domestic Abuse Strategy

In this section

  1. About this strategy
  2. Foreword
  3. What is Domestic Abuse?
  4. National and local Context
  5. Our Expectation
  6. Our approach to domestic abuse
  7. Our Priorities
  8. Delivery and Governance
  9. Outcomes framework
  10. Conclusion
  11. Support organisations
  12. Appendix 1. Legislative Framework and national policy

Foreword

Councilor Lynn Watkins

As Chair, it is my pleasure to introduce the 2025-30 Stoke-on-Trent Domestic Abuse Strategy, on behalf of the Domestic Abuse Partnership and those affected by domestic abuse across Stoke-on-Trent.

Domestic abuse affects individuals, families, and communities across all backgrounds. It is a pervasive issue that not only causes immense harm to survivors but undermines the fabric of society. Domestic abuse has a huge impact on the economy, health services, and the criminal and civil justice systems. The scale of the challenge is recognised at the highest level, and the Government is seeking to provide better protection to survivors and bring more perpetrators of these crimes to justice. This strategy sets out our approach to preventing domestic abuse, supporting survivors, and holding perpetrators to account in Stoke-on-Trent.

We are committed to eradicating domestic abuse in our city, by fostering a community where everyone can live safely and with dignity, free from the threat of abuse.  Successful delivery of this strategy requires strong leadership, commitment, and engagement from all partners.  By working together, through challenging societal norms, and by supporting those most at risk, we can create lasting change that will make our communities safer places to live.

Cllr Lynn Watkins – Chair of the Stoke on Trent Domestic Abuse Partnership