Free ‘Cut It Out’ domestic abuse training for professionals

Herefordshire Community Safety Partnership has launched a new round of free ‘Cut It Out’ domestic abuse training sessions.

The training is for professionals who work with the general public, such as tattooists, hair, beauty and nail technicians, financial planners and hotel staff who have a unique, one-on-one, trusting relationship with clients/victims. There is no charge to attend. Events are currently scheduled in Hereford, Ledbury and Leominster. Further sessions in Bromyard are also being planned. 

The aim is for as many professionals as possible to have the opportunity to come to the free sessions and learn what domestic abuse is, what they can do to recognise the signs and how to signpost when a disclosure is made. 

The sessions will include information on:

• What is domestic abuse and what is its impact on adults and children
• How to recognise the signs of domestic abuse and coercive controlling behaviour in your clients
• What to do if a client says they are being abused
• How to have that difficult conversation and ask the right questions
• Which services you can signpost clients to
• Why it’s so difficult to leave an abusive relationship

The Partnership is working with Martin Lakeman, (Domestic Abuse and Safeguarding Consultant) to provide this training. All attendees will be provided with a 'directory of services' developed by Martin, as well as a ‘Cut It Out’ pin badge and mirror stickers.

Councillor Carole Gandy, Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing, said:“Survivors or victims of domestic abuse are often too frightened to speak out or to report incidents to the police - but they may open up to trusted professionals. These conversations can be incredibly difficult for professionals to be party to. However, this training will not only help attendees to spot the signs of domestic abuse but also to understand how they can be supportive and help any of their clients who confide in them.”