Hartlepool plans to tackle '˜toxic trio' of domestic violence, substance misuse and mental health

The current Hartlepool Domestic Violence and Abuse Strategy, which was developed in 2012, came to an end in December.

Work on a new strategy for the next three years has started and is being overseen by the Safer Hartlepool Partnership Domestic Violence and Abuse Task Group.

An up-to-date picture of the extent of domestic violence and abuse in town will be created after getting information from a wide range of sources including police, Hartlepool Borough Council’s child and adult services, public health, Harbour Support Services and North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust and the public through consultation exercises.

Clare Clark, head of community safety and engagement with Hartlepool council, said: “A lot of work has been done locally. Links between the so-called toxic trio of domestic violence, substance misuse and mental health will be incorporated into the assessment.”

Objectives and priorities for the new strategy will be identified and included in a draft Domestic Violence and Abuse Strategy, which is due to go to the Safer Hartlepool Partnership in June.

It will then go out for public consultation for eight weeks.

Barry Coppinger, police and crime commissioner for Cleveland, offered his support to the Safer Hartlepool Partnership, saying: “I’m sure we will be willing to help out with the development of this strategy and wish you every success.”