We hosted a powerful event this week, uniting expert voices from across Hertfordshire and Poland to spotlight the urgent issue of domestic abuse and the collaborative efforts underway to address it.
With distinguished representatives from the Regional Centre for Social Policy in Poznań, Poland, Hertfordshire Police, Hertfordshire County Council, Refuge, and IMPAKT Housing and Support, we brought together attendees to share insights, strategies, and knowledge, to strengthen the local response to domestic abuse and support for survivors.
A highlight of the afternoon was a screening of “Unstuck”, a powerful short film inspired by a BBC EastEnders storyline. Produced by GTown Talents, the film poignantly illustrates how coercive control can rapidly isolate victims and their families, underscoring the importance of early intervention and community awareness.
Co-founder and director of partnership and communication at Domestic Abuse Alliance, Razi Hassan said:
“We are deeply grateful to all our speakers, guests, and partners for their time, expertise, and tireless determination to building safer communities. Their voices are vital, and their presence makes a real difference towards Hertfordshire’s ongoing commitment to tackling domestic abuse through partnership, prevention, and survivor support.”
Since 2020, Domestic Abuse Alliance has received more than 13,000 referrals from frontline services using its technology-driven WEPROTECT service, for Hertfordshire domestic abuse victims seeking civil legal support and protection. It has helped to secure over 900 court orders for those living with abuse so they can start to feel safe again.
The Regional Centre for Social Policy in Poznań, Poland is a government organisation whose responsibilities include planning and implementing social policies aimed at preventing domestic abuse in the region. The purpose of the Centre’s visit to the UK was to study the interventions in place to tackle domestic abuse. In 2024, in England and Wales, approximately one in five people aged 16 years and over (9.9 million) had experienced domestic abuse since the age of 16 years.[1]
Adrianna Szyszka, a specialist in competence development from The Regional Centre for Social Policy, said:
“We are truly grateful for the opportunity to exchange experiences and share effective practices in supporting those affected by domestic abuse. Technology, when thoughtfully applied, can be a powerful tool to support victims. Above all, the importance of creating a shared space where diverse organisations can unite around a common purpose – the well-being and safety of survivors – is invaluable.”
[1] https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/crimeandjustice/bulletins/domesticabuseinenglandandwalesoverview/november2024
