A multi-agency training session brought together approximately 50 participants from Barking and Dagenham Council and partnership organisations. The session was survivor-led, using her own experience to deepen understanding and highlight the complexities of domestic abuse. The session focussed on recognising and responding to stalking and coercive and controlling behaviour whilst emphasising how these forms of abuse is a pattern and not a signal incident on their own, often escalating over time.
Training also highlighted the importance of language used when supporting someone who has experienced domestic abuse; with the need for professionals to believe all domestic abuse disclosures. Attendees explored practical approaches to identifying early warning signs highlighted as red flags, learned that how they response to victims/survivors is crucial, especially at first point of contact and how to improve coordinated responses across agencies.
The training session was funded by one of the council IT suppliers as part of their Social Value commitment to LBBD and allowed professionals to strengthen and share knowledge, encourage collaboration and enhance the response given to our residents experiencing domestic abuse.
