Taunton_Domestic_Abuse_Forum

Welcome to the Taunton Domestic Abuse Forum website

Taunton Domestic Abuse Forum was set up in 1998 following a lead from Taunton Women’s Refuge. Members are from voluntary and statutory organisations such as the Refuge, Social Services, the Police, Victim Support, Counselling services, Accident and Emergency Department, Health Visitors and solicitors.

The Forum works closely with Taunton Deane Crime and Disorder Partnership with its remit to reduce the number of victims experiencing domestic abuse. The Forum meets quarterly and has been successful in raising awareness of domestic abuse in the Taunton area. It has promoted the Domestic Abuse FreeFone Support service.

In conjunction with the Borough Council and the Women’s Refuge it funds multi-agency training.

Mission Statement

Taunton Domestic Abuse Forum intends to achieve recognition by all that Domestic Abuse is a punishable offence, that sufferers will be offered co-ordinated support from the relevant agencies and that the Forum will develop strategies for reducing its incidence in this area.

Aims and Objectives

To meet the needs, appreciate the risks and increase the safety of those experiencing domestic abuse by involving agencies to support this.

To provide information to those experiencing domestic abuse that includes input from agencies that have central involvement.

To be consistent and committed in maintaining joint action together with voluntary agencies as well as statutory ones.

To undertake effective co-ordination within preventative, educational and awareness raising work that will serve to eliminate domestic abuse.

To make known domestic abuse issues to the wider community and campaign where appropriate.

To develop policies and practice that improve the quality of life to survivors of domestic abuse and those experiencing it.

To monitor and evaluate the work of the Forum on a regular basis to include:

the participating agencies

the Forum

May 1998