A NEW approach to supporting victims and survivors of domestic abuse has just launched in West Sussex.

The three-year programme adopts a whole family approach and has been developed by survivors of domestic abuse.

The partnership between West Sussex County Council, UK wide domestic abuse charity SafeLives, and specialist frontline services makes West Sussex one of only two ‘Beacon’ sites in the country to pilot the work.

The West Sussex Connect project will provide a package of support for individuals and families experiencing domestic abuse, helping people recognise the signs of abuse before it escalates and offer a range of new interventions to address needs.

Specialist support will be given to children and young people as well as those with complex needs, such as substance misuse and mental ill health.

Support will also be given to people who are still in a relationship or living with the perpetrator of abuse.

As part of the work, a project is also underway to work directly with perpetrators to challenge their behaviour and encourage change.

Debbie Kennard, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Safer Stronger Communities, said: “We are delighted to be working with SafeLives and other partners on this innovative programme which will develop complete care pathways to support victims and help them recover from harm.

“West Sussex Connect will enhance the established high-risk domestic abuse services we already offer to some of the most vulnerable people in West Sussex and will be driven by their voices throughout.”

The three-year pilot officially began last November.