Background 

The Eden Forum against Domestic Violence (EFDV) was established in 1995.  It began life as a network and information exchange between people who had contact with or experience of domestic violence and the consequences of abusive relationships.  It became an independent association in May 1998 and now provides safehouses for the residents of Eden district.  In early 2000, the Forum secured funding from Comic Relief and the Rural Development Programme to carry out research into the extent of domestic violence in Eden (both reported and unreported), the local services available and any gaps in provision, and a proposal for the setting up of the local self-help support groups.

 Outreach Worker Post

 Funding for the Outreach Worker has been secured from Comic Relief and the North Cumbria Health Action Zone for an initial period of 12 months.  The aim of the post is to provide support to families who have been or who are living with domestic violence in Eden district.

 Research, which is being conducted by St Martins College, Lancaster and is due for completion in August 2001.  Recommendations will be made on the use of the safehouse scheme, the level of support provided and whether this needs to be increased/decreased, the most appropriate services for survivors of domestic violence locally, and the relevance/benefits of local self-help support groups.

 It was agreed by the forum that Impact Housing Association should be chosen as the managing agent for the Domestic Violence Outreach Worker post.

 The overall aim of the post, is to liaise with a range of other agencies, undertake support of people who have been, or are living with domestic violence.  To promote the provision of adequate information, appropriate support, and protection for those experiencing the effects of domestic violence.

To raise awareness and understanding that domestic violence in any form is unacceptable and often against the law.

 Domestic Violence, be it physical, sexual or emotional affects one in four people, so statistics tell us.  In truth this figure is probably much higher, as the statistics only reflect reported cases, whereas many will be suffering in silence as Domestic Abuse is one of the society’s best kept secrets.

Anyone wishing to learn more about the service or in need of safe accommodation please telephone:  01768 892179   Eden Domestic Outreach Worker

                              01768 864671  Safe Accommodation