Havant charity Stop Domestic Abuse reports a 64 per cent increase in domestic abuse cases this year

The number of calls to a domestic abuse charity has confinued to rise.

Stop Domestic Abuse, based in Havant, said demand for its services remained high as it pledged to adapt its support to meet the changing needs of victims and survivors.

Over the past year, the charity provided specialist support to 156 people affected by harmful practices and female genital mutilation, a 64 per cent increase on the previous year. It also delivered healthy relationship workshops to 13,638 children and young people as part of efforts to prevent abuse.

Its group programmes supported 595 people with a focus on mental wellbeing, while safe accommodation was provided to 348 adults fleeing abusive relationships, alongside their children. That represented a 10 per cent increase on the previous year.

Chief executive Claire Lambon said: “I would like to thank our trustees, volunteers, partners, and supporters for their unwavering dedication, and Stop Domestic Abuse's committed and skilled workforce, whose adaptability, professionalism, and compassion continue to be the foundation of everything we do.

"Together, we will constantly adapt so that we can continue to protect, empower and create lasting change."

Earlier this week, the charity held its annual general meeting in Hedge End, wih attendees that included the mayor of Havant, Councillor Paul Tansom.

Cllr Tansom said: “The work that Stop Domestic Abuse does is incredibly important. Home and family should provide sanctuary not fear. Seeing how they have adapted from their starting point in 1977 as an aid organisation for women is amazing.

“They have recognised that men can be abused as well, added specialist LGBTQ+ and stalking services, and stepped up to provide a new refuge in response to the impact of COVID on domestic abuse victims. Of particular note is their new project working with the police to improve handling of calls relating to abuse.

“Their work is truly inspiring, particularly when you realise that they also support the children of perpetrators and even work with perpetrators themselves to break the cycle. I found it quite an emotional and educational event to attend.”

The AGM also marked the departure of chair of trustees Gill Butler, who is stepping down after five years in the role. She will be succeeded by Maria Norris, who was formally welcomed as the charity's new chair.

Mrs Butler said: “As chair, I have seen the organisation continue to strengthen its commitment to providing choice and person-centred support for thousands of victim-survivors of domestic abuse. It has been a very great privilege to observe at close hand so much amazing work. I am confident that Maria and the team will continue to drive positive change.”

Ms Norris said tackling domestic abuse required police, health services, schools, councils, charities and communities to work together.

The charity will mark its 50th anniversary in 2027, the same year a purpose-built refuge is due to open, providing nine additional spaces for women and children.