Praise for Rotherham domestic violence scheme

In Rotherham, police received 5,555 reports from victims of domestic abuse in the past year.

It is believed that a person will be the victim of 37 incidents on average before seeking help.

Rotherham officers have identified the need for a “robust perpetrator management scheme” in order to prevent repeat offences.  

The town already has a strong domestic abuse partnership but senior officers decided more innovative approach to managing perpetrators was required.

They launched a new scheme with educates offenders about the consequences of what they are doing and the impact their behaviour has on their victims and families.

Throughout December, a skilled domestic violence officer worked with 17 men who were known serial perpetrators of domestic abuse to challenge their cultural behaviours and deliver personalised interventions.  

The officer was able to support partners of these perpetrators and closely monitor the risk they posed.  

None of these regular abusers re-offended.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Shaun Wright has asked South Yorkshire Police to extend the work across the force.

He said: “I am very pleased with the results of the intervention work in Rotherham.  

“December is predominantly a time when police receive a higher number of domestic abuse reports.  

“It is welcome news that over the festive period, Rotherham officers have found a successful way of stopping the abuse and protecting so many women.

“This year, I shall be specifically targeting the protection of women caught up in abusive relationships and will be working closely with organisations that help to stop perpetrators reoffending.  

Chief Insp Ian Womersley said: “The intervention work that officers have put into practice in Rotherham is attracting much interest from other police forces and partnerships.  

“As the project expands, it should continue to improve the protection of domestic violence victims and their families from abuse.

“Our partners across Rotherham have been key to this work through provision of alcohol and drug referral schemes, implementation of Acceptable Behaviour Contracts, all of which have been supported by engagement with offenders and their families.”