A new awareness initiative has been launched in Herefordshire to help professionals spot signs of domestic abuse with their clients.
The Cut It Out initiative has been launched to raise awareness of the devastating impact of domestic abuse and offer free training for all professionals who have a unique, one on one trusting relationship with their clients, such as hair and beauty professionals, physiotherapists, chiropractors, tattooists, cleaners, etc.
With one in four women and one in six men experiencing domestic abuse at some point in their life, the Cut It Out campaign was first launched in Norfolk following the murder of Kerri McAuley, who was killed in 2017 by her abusive partner. Before her death, Kerri had disclosed to her hairdresser that she was the victim of abuse and reached out for support, but the seriousness wasn’t realised.
Everyone who takes part in the training will receive materials to display in their business windows or mirrors to show that it is a safe space.
They will also receive a pin badge which is a great way to start a conversation, it gives the opportunity to talk about the training they have completed and then offer support services if a client needs it.
Cut It Out was launch by the Community Safety Partnership, and is supported by Martin Lakeman (Domestic Abuse Consultant), Herefordshire Public Health, and the Herefordshire, Ludlow and North Shropshire College.
Martin Lakeman, Domestic Abuse Consultant, said:
Our aim is that as many professionals have the opportunity to come to a free session and learn about what domestic abuse is and what they can do to recognise the signs, and signpost support to those that may be suffering abuse. Because of the close proximity certain professionals have, they will see things other people might not notice, people are more likely to talk to someone they trust about abuse rather than report it to the police. A salon for example may be the ideal place to seek help as it could be one of the few places their abuser will allow them to go or go without them.”
To find out more about the Cut It Out events, please click on the links below to book and register your place.
Training takes place on:
Monday, 3 June 2024 (10.00 – 12.00), Hereford Town Hall, St. Owen’s Street
Monday, 1 July 2024 (10.00 – 12.00), Hereford Town Hall, St. Owen’s Street
Wednesday, 24 July 2024 (10.00 – 12.00), Hereford Town Hall, St. Owen’s Street
Training will include information on:
If you have any questions about these events, please contact admin.sbu@herefordshire.gov.uk