Domestic Violence Court launched in Macclesfield

February 6, 2012

A dedicated Domestic Violence Court will begin at Macclesfield Magistrates Court this week.

Victims will be offered an independent domestic violence advocate to support them before, during and after the court process fortnightly on Tuesdays, starting February 7.

Victims and witnesses can, with the permission of the court, give evidence by video link or from behind screens in cases where intimidation is feared. Special arrangements can also be made to enable access to and from the premises if necessary to ensure the health and safety and wellbeing of witnesses and other court users.

Magistrates will receive extra training about the nature of domestic violence, both the incidents for which offenders are prosecuted and the repetitive and destructive behaviours which often go unseen, but cause lasting damage to the whole family. Their training will also include case management and sentencing.

This new initiative is the result of Cheshire East Domestic Abuse Partnership’s action to provide all victims and witnesses with the same level of service wherever they live.

Crewe has had a dedicated court for some time which has proved successful in holding offenders to account for their behaviour. Key agencies involved in improving services are the court, Crown Prosecution Service, police, probation, witness service, victim support and the Council’s Domestic Abuse Family Safety Unit.

Councillor Roland Domleo, Cabinet member with responsibility for adult services, said: “Feedback from victims who are already supported through the court at Macclesfield is very positive.

“Two women who have experienced repeated abuse have reported that they are a lot less nervous and feel able to give their evidence more clearly and confidently. Support does not end there.

“Restraining orders which are made by the court can play a key role in keeping families safe for a longer period and victims can receive support services for as long as is needed to get back control of their lives.”

Jo Lazzari, Senior Crown Prosecutor from CPS Mersey-Cheshire and an expert on prosecuting domestic violence, added: “We want to spotlight the darker side of many relationships and show that there is help and ongoing support for people who are suffering domestic abuse.

“It can be extremely difficult for a person to go through the court process and give evidence against their partner. Services like this one are just one way the CPS and justice agencies are supporting victims of this type of crime.”

Domestic violence is a general term that describes a range of controlling and coercive behaviours, which are used by one person to maintain control over another with whom they have or have had an intimate or family relationship.

It affects both men and women. If you are concerned for anyone’s immediate safety please call 999 or for a conversation about how to get local support contact the Family Safety Unit on 01606 363532 or Barnardo’s on 01625 501651.