HMIC report into Suffolk Police's approach to tackling domestic abuse

Executive Summary

The public in Suffolk can generally have confidence that the police provide a good service to victims of domestic abuse, and in doing so, help to keep them safe.

Tackling domestic abuse is a priority for the force, and staff demonstrate a high level of commitment and awareness; they exercise appropriate discretion and work well with partners.

There are just three independent domestic abuse advisors (IDVAs) in the county. This is insufficient for them to be able to properly support victims of domestic abuse. Other similar forces have far more IDVAs, some as many as ten. The police and crime commissioner (PCC) is working with partner agencies to increase the number of IDVAs in Suffolk.

This report outlines a number of areas where the force could further strengthen its response to victims of domestic abuse.

Read the full report here: http://www.hmic.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/suffolk-approach-to-tackling-domestic-abuse.pdf