NEWS: Free training sessions for professionals to help spot domestic abuse signs

Training sessions are being held across Worcestershire to help professionals spot signs of domestic abuse with their clients. 

The Cut It Out initiative has been launched by the South Worcestershire Community Safety Partnership, which Malvern Hills District Council is a part of. It is also supported by Martin Lakeman, Domestic Abuse and Safeguarding Consultant. 

The initiative aims to raise awareness around the devastating impact of domestic abuse, with one in four women and one in six men experiencing domestic abuse at some point in their life. 

The free, two-hour sessions are open to any professional working in any sector, volunteers and members of the public.   

Everyone who takes part in the training will receive a Cut It Out badge for their business windows or mirrors to show that it is a safe space. 

They will also receive a pin badge which is a great way to start a conversation, it gives the opportunity to talk about the training they have completed and then offer support services if a client needs it. 

Training takes place on: 

• Monday, 27 January 9:30am-11:30am, The Guildhall, High Street, Worcester 

• Monday, 3 February 9:30am-11:30am, The Council House, Avenue Road, Malvern 

• Wednesday, 12 February 9:30am-11:30am, The Civic Centre, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Pershore  

• Tuesday, 25 February 9:30am – 11:30am, The Guildhall, High Street, Worcester  

• Monday, 10 March 9:30am – 11:30am, The Guildhall, High Street, Worcester 

Cllr Jennie Watkins, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Housing at Malvern Hills District Council, said: “These events are a great opportunity for professionals to learn how to recognise signs of domestic abuse in customers or clients, and what to do in that situation. One of the main priorities of the South Worcestershire Community Safety Partnership is domestic abuse, and to improve the quality of life for the people of South Worcestershire”. 

Martin Lakeman, Domestic Abuse Consultant, said: “Our aim is that as many professionals have the opportunity to come to a free session and learn about what domestic abuse is and what they can do to recognise the signs, and signpost support to those that may be suffering abuse. 

“Because of the close proximity certain professionals have, they will see things other people might not notice, people are more likely to talk to someone they trust about abuse rather than report it to the police. A salon for example may be the ideal place to seek help as it could be one of the few places their abuser will allow them to go or go without them.” 

Visit www.malvernhills.gov.uk/domestic-abuse-support to find event details and to register. 

News press release published: 22 January 2025.