Domestic Abuse can take many forms and is not just related to incidents of physical violence. Domestic abuse is a pattern of behavior on the part of the abuser designed to control their partner. It can happen at any point in a relationship, including after a split-up has occurred. Anyone forced to change their behavior because they are frightened of their partner, or ex-partner’s reaction, is experiencing abuse.  

Stockport Homes has always been committed to supporting survivors of Domestic Abuse. On 22nd April 2022, an SHG officer was able to support a customer to secure a non-molestation order in the Magistrates Court as a ‘McKenzie Friend’. A “McKenzie Friend” means that SHG officers are able to draft papers and statements on behalf of the survivor and also attend the court hearing with them, helping alleviate the pressure and stress of the process. The order granted on 22nd April 2022 included a power of arrest which means the abuser is not allowed to approach or contact their ex-partner and breaching it means the abuser could face being committed to prison.

It is important that survivors of domestic abuse are aware of SHGs commitment to providing protection against abuse and know that they can come to us for this type of legal help and we will support them every step of the way. Domestic abuse is a pervasive and often insidious crime that cannot be left unchallenged. SHG has employed a specialist Domestic Abuse Case Officer and we encourage anyone experiencing abuse to contact us on  0161 217 6016 or tell us via the website at www.stockporthomes.org

John Bowker, Executive Director of Operations