Commissioner welcomes funding to tackle domestic abuse

The programme, which already operates in the north-west of the county, works with high risk domestic abuse offenders to stop them from re-offending and to safeguard and support victims and their children.

Since its launch in 2023 the programme has worked with more than 130 high risk domestic abuse offenders and supported 150 victims and 279 children connected to these cases.

Evaluation of the programme shows significant reductions in offending across physical abuse, sexual abuse, harassment and stalking as well as jealous, coercive and controlling behaviour.

Commissioner Grunshaw said: “Abuse of any kind is wholly unacceptable and anything we can do to break the cycle of abuse is great news for Lancashire.

“The DRIVE programme has already been piloted across the Constabulary’s West Division and we are now discussing with the Home Office how we can expand this offer to the rest of the county.

“This means less offending, fewer victims and safer homes for children who may otherwise witness or suffer domestic abuse.

“Tackling violence against women and girls is a key priority in my Police and Crime Plan for Lancashire and I will continue to invest in programmes and services that tackle offending and support those affected by abuse.”

Further information about the DRIVE programme can be found at drivepartnership.org.uk. Information about support services for victims of domestic abuse can be found at victimcarelancashire.org/support-directory/domestic-abuse.