Professionals to be trained to spot domestic abuse

Training sessions designed to help professionals spot the signs of domestic abuse in their clients are to be held in Worcestershire.

The Cut It Out initiative is aimed at those who have a unique, one-on-one relationship with their clients, such as hair and beauty professionals, physiotherapists, chiropractors and tattoo artists.

Everyone who takes part in the training will receive a Cut It Out badge for their business windows or mirrors to show that it is a safe space.

The sessions will take place at The Council House in Malvern on 12 February and The Guildhall in Worcester on 26 February.

According to the initiative, one in four women and one in six men experience domestic abuse at some point in their life.

The Cut It Out campaign was launched in Norfolk following the murder of Kerri McAuley, who was killed in 2017 by her abusive partner.

Before her death, she had disclosed to a professional that she was the victim of abuse and reached out for support but the seriousness of her situation was not realised.

The scheme in Worcestershire has been supported by the South Worcestershire Community Safety Partnership, of which Malvern Hills District Council is a part.

The project is also supported by domestic abuse consultant Martin Lakeman, Heart of Worcestershire College, Parkinson Wrights Solicitors, and Worcester BID.

Councillor Natalie McVey, responsible for community safety at Malvern Hills District Council, said: "Hair and beauty professionals are often trusted people in our lives, so this will give them the opportunity to reach out to those who may not know who to turn to.”

Mr Lakeman added: “Our aim is that as many professionals have the opportunity to come to a free session and learn about what domestic abuse is and what they can do to recognise the signs, and signpost support to those that may be suffering abuse."