Blackburn with Darwen Council has taken a significant step in addressing domestic abuse within the community by awarding new contracts for domestic abuse services to a partnership involving Blackburn and Darwen District Without Abuse (The Wish Centre) and Humraaz. This agreement is designed to last for three years, with an option for a secondary extension of two additional years, contingent upon satisfactory performance and the availability of ongoing funding. The purpose of this initiative is clear: to enhance support for victims of domestic abuse and provide essential services that meet the specific needs of the local population.
The two contracts awarded are strategically divided into two distinct yet complementary categories. The first, referred to as Lot One, focuses on community-based support. This aspect of the service aims to assist victims of domestic abuse within their own communities, offering a range of support options that help them navigate the complexities of their situations. Various resources will be made available, including emotional support, advocacy, and guidance on accessing further assistance, which may include legal support or services aimed at bettering their living circumstances.
Lot Two targets accommodation-based support and floating support services. This segment of the contract emphasizes the critical need for safe shelter for those fleeing domestic abuse situations. Recognizing that many victims find it challenging to leave abusive environments due to fears about homelessness, isolation, or financial constraints, this initiative ensures that individuals have access to both temporary and, where needed, longer-term housing solutions. The floating support component further bolsters the service by providing assistance to individuals living independently but still needing support to maintain their safety and well-being.
The decision to move forward with these contracts follows a thorough procurement process, as outlined in a report by Martin Eden, the strategic director of environment and operations at Blackburn with Darwen Council. On August 8, 2024, the Executive Board granted delegated authority for the award of these critical contracts, reaffirming the council’s commitment to addressing domestic abuse effectively. The previous contract providing these services is set to conclude on March 31, 2025, necessitating the retendering process to ensure that no disruption occurs in the provision of domestic abuse support services.
The need for these services cannot be overstated. Domestic abuse is a pervasive issue that affects individuals from all walks of life, leaving significant repercussions not only on victims but also on their families and the wider community. The council has emphasized its statutory duty to protect vulnerable people and support victims of crime, and this new contract aims to fulfill that responsibility by providing a holistic approach to domestic abuse services.
Specific goals within the commission of these services include safeguarding vulnerable individuals and victims, delivering a comprehensive service that meets the diverse needs of the Blackburn with Darwen community, ensuring the highest quality of care, and providing efficient and effective services that comply with standards imposed by regulatory bodies, including Ofsted and Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services. Through rigorous evaluation and oversight, these services will aim to not only meet immediate needs but also promote long-term resilience and recovery for victims.
There are considerable implications should the contract award not receive approval. The absence of a designated domestic abuse service would create significant risks for the most vulnerable individuals within the community, effectively leaving them without the support systems they require and undermining the council’s commitment to its statutory duties. A lack of commissioned services would also result in the dismantling of a holistic approach that is crucial in meeting the varied and complex needs of those affected by domestic abuse.
Financially, Blackburn with Darwen Council has allocated a total of £404,023 per year for the successful provider across the contract’s lifespan. This funding will be sourced from a variety of channels, including cash limits, contributions from the Office of Police and Crime Commissioner, public health funding, and specifically designated domestic abuse duty funding from the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government. This multifaceted funding strategy underscores both the council’s commitment to addressing domestic abuse and the collaboration necessary across different sectors to create a robust and effective support system.
The partnership with The Wish Centre and Humraaz is particularly notable for its community-driven approach. By leveraging local knowledge, these organizations are well-positioned to understand the unique challenges faced by victims of domestic abuse in this area. Their earlier work in the community has paved the way for an empathetic and tailored response, ensuring that services provided are not only effective but also culturally sensitive and inclusive.
Community engagement and input will be vital components of the service provided under these contracts. The emphasis will be on listening to the voices of victims and tailoring support services to meet their specific experiences and requirements. By fostering a collaborative environment, the aim is to create a network of support that empowers victims and assists them in reclaiming their lives from the grip of abuse.
In conclusion, the awarding of domestic abuse contracts to Blackburn and Darwen District Without Abuse in conjunction with Humraaz represents a critical move toward enhancing the safety and support of individuals within the community. It reflects a recognition of the complexities surrounding domestic abuse and an understanding that effective solutions require a multifaceted and collaborative approach. With a structured plan for both immediate assistance and long-term support, these services are poised to make a meaningful impact in the lives of many, ensuring that Blackburn with Darwen is a community committed to safeguarding its residents and providing assistance to those in need. Through this initiative, the council not only fulfills its statutory obligations but also reinforces its dedication to nurturing a safe, supportive, and resilient community environment for all its members.