On Friday (4th October) Skipton MP Julian Smith met with the team to discuss the efforts of IDAS in supporting victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence in the local community.
Julian spoke to Lead Independent Domestic Violence Advisor for the Harrogate & Craven IDAS, Tia-Joanne Fenton and IDAS Domestic Abuse Practitioner, Kat Hawley,
During the meeting, they discusses the need for flexible, community-based services to help reduce the devastating effects of domestic abuse.
IDAS also highlighted concerns around victims with insecure immigration status and support available for parents of child victims of abuse.
Following the meeting, Julian said:
“I am grateful for the tireless work of the IDAS team supporting victims of domestic abuse in our area.
"More must be done to ensure these life-saving services are properly funded and supported.
"I will continue to champion the work IDAS is doing to protect the most vulnerable in our society".
IDAS is the largest specialist domestic abuse charity in Northern England, responding to 30,000 helpline calls and supporting over 10,000 individuals annually, including providing emergency accommodation to those in need.
IDAS said:
"We are pleased Julian Smith MP is supportive of our efforts to raise awareness of domestic abuse in rural areas within his constituency.
"In rural areas, abuse lasts approximately 25% longer than in urban areas. Rural isolation can be weaponised by abusers who may interfere with or cut people off from their support networks. "
They added:
"Sustainable funding for community-based domestic abuse services is vital. We know that there are many more people who need our support.
"Survivors escaping abuse need safe accommodation options, we provide a range of accommodation, including refuges and safe housing in volunteer hosts homes, to meet the varied needs of the people we support.
"We welcomed the opportunity to discuss these critical issues with Julian Smith MP and welcome his advocacy for victims living in his constituency."
Victims and professionals can contact IDAS via their helpline 03000 110 110 between 8am-8pm Monday to Friday and between 11am-8pm on weekends and Bank Holidays.
IDAS can also be contacted via their Live Chat available on their website here.
Live Chat is available 1-4pm Monday to Friday.
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