New strategy launched to tackle estimated 12,000 cases of domestic violence in Milton Keynes

The new strategy has been launched in partnership by Milton Keynes Council (MKC), Thames Valley Police (TVP), the NHS and local domestic abuse organisation MK ACT to tackle the issue in MK.

A council spokesperson said: "Domestic abuse happens in communities across the UK but remains an under-reported crime. It is estimated that approximately 12,000 adults in Milton Keynes will experience domestic abuse each year. However, the number of people contacting local police and support services remains relatively low."

The Milton Keynes Domestic Abuse Prevention Strategy (2020 – 2025) sets out priorities and new measures for making the town a safer place. It looks at providing more education on the issues, greater support for victims and 'zero tolerance' of abusive behaviour.

The strategy has the voices of people who have experienced domestic violence at its core and has been developed with them and with support agencies, according to MKC.

MKC's Hannah O’Neill said: “We must do everything we can to prevent people from experiencing or perpetrating domestic abuse in the future. Educating our young people on positive, healthy relationships is key alongside flexible support services that provide options for everyone, regardless of their circumstances.

"Every day domestic abuse impacts thousands of lives across the country yet so much goes unreported. We want anyone in an abusive situation to understand they are not alone. Help is available and this crime will not be tolerated in Milton Keynes.”

TVP's Kelly Gardner said: “This is a horrendous crime impacting families across Milton Keynes. TVP welcome the preventative approach to domestic abuse.”

MKC said it is also introducing a housing specialist to support families fleeing domestic abuse. A new pilot ‘sanctuary’ scheme will introduce an option for people who do not live with an abuser to remain safely in their homes, following an assessment and installation of security measures.

TVP is also leading a domestic abuse champion’s scheme with partners as part of raising awareness of domestic abuse.

In parallel, MK ACT will be supporting households with temporary accommodation. Individuals or families can move on to new permanent accommodation or return to their previous home where it is safe to do so.

Details of the strategy can be found online at: https://www.mktogether.co.uk/

Anyone who is in an abusive situation at home can contact the MK ACT Crisis Service Helpline on 0344 375 4307. Outside of normal working hours, the National Domestic Violence Helpline is open 24 hours on 0808 2000 247.

However, if there is an immediate risk of harm to someone, or it is an emergency, always call 999. The police non-emergency number is 101.