THE battle against domestic abuse has been stepped up with the training of more “Champions” to go out into the community to support victims.

IDAS—the largest specialist charity in Yorkshire supporting anyone affected by domestic abuse— has trained 16 more volunteers to seek out opportunities to raise awareness and help victims get the support that they need.

The Champions scheme, which is funded by Julia Mulligan, North Yorkshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, is a pioneering way to reach out into rural areas, change attitudes and beliefs about domestic abuse.

Mrs Mulligan said: “Domestic abuse is a crime that can have a devastating impact, not only on the victim, but their family too. And that’s why I decided to fund the Champions Scheme as it will help more people to recognise abuse and encourage more victims to come forward for support and information.”

The aim of the one-day course is to ensure that IDAS Champions, of which there are now 40, are given an understanding of what support is available to victims and perpetrators.

They are also trained in spotting the warning signs, the barriers for victims accessing support, the importance of professional boundaries, and the law and the importance of personal wellbeing when talking about domestic abuse.

IDAS ambassador and Champion Jan Davos said: “I think that IDAS provides an incredible service and it’s great that more people will know where to go for support. IDAS helps people to take charge of their own lives but it needs more Champions to spread the message across North Yorkshire, especially to rural areas.”

Visit idas.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer-for-idas/