Public views to be sought on new domestic abuse strategy
16 June 2025
Cheshire East Council has today (16 June) launched a six-week public consultation on a powerful new strategy to tackle domestic abuse and support those affected across the borough.
The draft Cheshire East Domestic and Sexual Violence Partnership Strategy 2025–2028 outlines a three-year plan to transform how domestic abuse is prevented, identified, and responded to—ensuring that every individual affected receives timely, compassionate, and effective support.
The strategy aims to reduce occurrences of domestic abuse and ensure that when it takes place, those affected get the right support, at the right time.
Domestic abuse is a widespread and persistently underreported form of crime. Based on recent data from the Office of National Statistics, an estimated 1 in 4 adults in England and Wales have experienced some form of domestic abuse since the age of 16. That’s 12.6 million people, with 30 per cent of women and 22 per cent of men reporting abuse.
As well as violent behaviour, domestic abuse can also include sexual, psychological, financial, emotional abuse or coercive and controlling behaviour.
The strategy sets out a clear vision for a safer Cheshire East, built on four key pillars:
- A focus on prevention
- Trauma-informed service provision for victims, children and perpetrators
- Partnership and collaboration
- Accountability and learning
It also outlines plans to improve access to safe accommodation—whether that means helping victims remain safely in their own homes or supporting them to find secure alternatives.
Councillor Laura Crane, chair of Cheshire East Council’s children and families committee, said: “Domestic abuse has a damaging impact on the lives of many adults and children across Cheshire East. It can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, background, or circumstance. It often begins subtly and escalates over time, leaving victims feeling isolated, fearful, and to blame. But it’s not your fault. And you are not alone.
“This strategy is about action. It’s about ensuring that every person affected by domestic abuse gets the help they need when they need it. We are calling on our communities to help shape this strategy—because your voice matters.”
People can have their say on the consultation by visiting www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/consultations. The council will also be conducting focus groups to hear from partner agencies and people with lived experience. The consultation ends on 25 July.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, help is available. Contact the Cheshire East Domestic Abuse Family Safety Unit on 0300 123 5101, or in an emergency, call 999. More information is available at www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/domesticabuse.