A PILOT scheme which aims to help women suffering domestic abuse receive support is being launched in the Northumbria Police force area.

Two domestic abuse charities Women’s Aid and SafeLives are behind the ‘Change that Lasts’ scheme which is being funded by the Big Lottery Fund.

One aim is to create safe spaces in local businesses and community settings where victims can talk to someone and get help quickly.

Specific training will be provided to those that are likely to have contact with victims of domestic abuse, for example those working in the health sector, with children, drug/alcohol support or housing, so they can identify signs of domestic abuse and provide support and advice.

Polly Neate, chief executive of Women’s Aid, said: “Our decades of experience working with women, and our research, have confirmed that we need a better way than the current approach to domestic abuse.

“By listening to women we can provide help earlier and make sure that the help is effective and long-lasting, leading to true independence.”

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Vera Baird added: “I am delighted that Northumbria has been selected to pilot the new ‘Change That Lasts’ scheme, which supports the work of my Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy and our network of Domestic Violence Workplace Champions who are reaching out to victims across the region.”