Action to tackle 'honour'-based abuse

Commissioner secures funding to tackle 'honour'-based abuse

Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, John Dwyer, has welcomed the news that his latest bids to the Government's Domestic Abuse Perpetrator Interventions Fund, worth more than £3 million, have been successful. More than £321,000 of additional funding is being used to help those at risk of 'honour'-based abuse (HBA).

The funding has enabled the Commissioner to enhance his partnership with Savera UK to address and raise awareness of HBA and harmful practices. There will also be training for professionals on how to spot the signs of HBA, as well as equipping them with the right tools when working with those at risk.

HBA is a crime or incident committed to protect or defend the 'honour' of a family or community. HBA and harmful practices can include child/forced marriage, female genital mutilation (FGM) and virginity testing as well as other culturally-specific abuse.

This funding means that Savera UK have been able to further support a HBA and Harmful Practices Specialist Worker, working in their one-to-one Direct Intervention team, providing direct intervention to survivors and those at risk or under threat of HBA and harmful practices.

The signs of HBA and harmful practices can be difficult to spot, so the importance of raising awareness and education is key. As part of this project, training sessions will be delivered to school and front-line professionals, encouraging them to act.

The Savera UK helpline is open weekdays 10am -- 4pm on 0800 107 0726, there are also referral forms for individuals and professionals available on the "Get Help" section of the website.

Find out more about Savera UK here  
For further information please contact Jen Seed on Jen.seed@cheshire.police.uk or 07971 562150

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