Domestic Violence Issues
Breaking the Silence about Domestic Violence
The Council of Churches Together in Cumbria adopted the following resolution in September 2006:
Churches Together in Cumbria:
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Acknowledges that domestic violence is an affront to the Christian Gospel.
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Resolves to work towards making all our churches safe places where those who experience or have witnessed domestic violence can find sanctuary and informed help
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Calls on churches and congregations to be aware of the signs of domestic violence, the support available for victims, families and perpetrators and
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Urges every local congregation to break the silence about domestic violence.
A Social Responsibility Forum task group is working in partnership with the LET GO project and the Cumbria Domestic Violence Project to provide a training and awareness programme for the churches of Cumbria. Five very successful training days have already been held for clergy and pastoral carers and more are planned: in West Cumbria in spring 2009 and South Cumbria in autumn 2009. To find out details of training dates and how to book email Helen Boothroyd . .
The following leaflets are also available for use by clergy and churches:
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- Information and advice for those affected by domestic violence/abuse
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- Information and advice for ministers and pastoral workers supporting those affected by domestic violence
To order copies of these leaflets please contact: gailr@impacthousing.org.uk or Helen Boothroyd
:Cumbria is well served by LET GO and Independent Domestic Violence Adviser Services, who can offer:
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Support in a crisis
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Confidential advice
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Practical help if needed
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Risk assessment and safety planning.
Contact Details for Help & Advice:
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LET GO (Eden): 01768 892179 LetGo@impacthousing.org.uk
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LET GO Carlisle: 01228 817364 / 01228 817365
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West Cumbria: 01900 64524
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South Cumbria: 01229 811138
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Women’s Aid and Refuge run a joint 24-hour help line: 0808 2000 247
- Set Free is a national Christian organisation based in Cumbria working to raise awareness about domestic violence. They can also provide resources and support:setfreetrust@aol.com
In an emergency phone 999: Cumbria Police are trained to deal appropriately with situations of domestic violence. They take the issue very seriously and have specially trained and dedicated staff.