Views wanted on domestic abuse services in Middlesbrough

Victims and survivors are being urged to take part in a survey

Author: Karen LiuPublished 24th Mar 2025
Last updated 1st May 2025

The public are being asked for their views on the services available in Middlesbrough for victims and survivors of domestic abuse.

The aim is to assess what is currently available, identify gaps in provision and understand the barriers that prevent those in need accessing services.

The findings will help to evaluate the effectiveness of existing commissioned domestic abuse services and contribute to an updated Middlesbrough Domestic Abuse Strategy.

Councils have a statutory duty to provide support and safe accommodation under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021.

They are required to lead a Domestic Abuse Strategic Partnership (DASP) alongside key local partners including local specialist domestic abuse service providers and involving survivors.

Claire Moore, Middlesbrough Council’s Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Lead, said: “Domestic abuse is a significant concern in Middlesbrough, so it’s essential that we hear from people who have experienced it and accessed services.

“It’s equally important that we have input from those who didn’t feel able to use those services to help us understand their reasons and where the barriers to engagement are.

“The consultation is completely anonymous and will help us better understand what’s working well, what needs to change and where there are gaps in local services, so we can improve access in the future.”

The consultation is open now, and runs until Wednesday 30th April and you can find it here on the Middlesbrough Council website.

Domestic Abuse support

If you're in immediate danger, call 999.

Police won't automatically be sent if you stay silent on a 999 phone call. If you can, cough or tap the phone to make a noise and let the operator know you're there.

If you can't do that, your call will be sent to an automated system (Silent Solutions) and you'll need to press 55 to prove that you need help. When you've pressed 55, the operator will transfer you to the police.

The police call handler will try to ask you simple yes or no questions. If you are not able to speak, listen carefully to the call handler's questions and instructions. They will assess your call and arrange help if you need it.

Local support

My Sister's Place - contact number: 01642 241864

SARC Teesside - contact number: 01642 061230

Arch Teesside - contact number: 01642 822331

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