Every three weeks, meetings known as Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARACs) are held across East Sussex, bringing together representatives from the Police, Probation, Children’s Services, Housing and the voluntary sector to discuss domestic violence victims who are at a high risk.
MARACs are essential for people who are suffering from serious cases of domestic violence because they help to increase the safety, health and wellbeing of victims – both adults and children. These conferences are driven by the aim to reduce repeat incidents of domestic violence, and support the latest pledge to work together to end violence against women.
DI Fran Mitchell said “I have been chairing the MARACs in East Sussex since April 2008. They are an effective way of getting a number of different agencies together to share information on high risk cases of domestic violence where a coordinated and carefully thought through response is needed, within an agreed timescale. MARAC is not just another meeting, it’s a very practical way of getting things done that protects the victim and deals effectively with the offender so that the violence is brought to an end”.
Nationally, MARACs have helped to achieve a 50% reduction in repeat incidents of domestic violence, which reinforces the importance of the East Sussex MARAC in making our communities safer and reducing domestic violence.
In East Sussex there are also other ways domestic violence victims can be supported. Specialist Domestic Violence Courts were introduced in East Sussex in 2007 which provide a faster process for victims and help to secure convictions. Independent Domestic Violence Advocates also provide personal support to victims and can help them through a court process.
Councillor Bob Tidy, Lead Member for Community Services said: “Making our local communities safer is a top priority for us and so we are pleased with the progress being made in tackling the hidden crime of domestic abuse. The MARACs and the domestic violence services now available in East Sussex are making a difference for many victims across the county.”
To get support, please contact your local CRI (Crime Reduction Initiatives) Domestic Abuse Service:
- Eastbourne – phone: 01323 414224
- Hastings and Rother – phone: 01424 716629
- Lewes and Wealden – phone: 01323 419340.
Further information
The MARACs are made up of the following organisations all working in partnership:
- Police
- CRI (Crime Reduction Initiatives)
- NHS
- Mental Health
- South Coast Ambulance
- Housing
- Children’s Services
- Action for Change
- Refuge
- Probation
- Independent Domestic Violence Advocates
- Victim Support
- Broken Rainbow
- Cafcass
- Substance Misuse Service, and
- Addaction.
National figures can be found on the CAADA (Coordinated Action Against Domestic Abuse) website, on the 'Toolkits for MARAC' page.
Reference:
2361
Contact the press team
East Sussex County Council