Domestic Abuse Commissioner launches platform to raise voices of victims and survivors of domestic abuse

The Domestic Abuse Commissioner, Nicole Jacobs launches VOICES, a virtual platform for victims and survivors of domestic abuse to influence change to improve the lives of other victims and survivors of domestic abuse.

Victims and survivors, as well as friends and family bereaved by domestic abuse, can sign up to receive the VOICES email newsletter, which will include opportunities for victims and survivors to share their experiences, as well as providing relevant updates on the work of the domestic abuse sector, government and academics.

The Domestic Abuse Commissioner is also inviting victims and survivors to share their views in a survey on their experiences with the police. The first priority in the Commissioner’s strategic plan is to raise the voices of victims and survivors.

The Domestic Abuse Commissioner receives correspondence from hundreds of victims and survivors each year who want to use their experience to change things for the better.

The Domestic Abuse Commissioner also hears from many organisations across the domestic abuse sector, universities, and local and national government, who are looking to include the voices of those with lived experience in their work. This may include hearing from victim and survivors who live/have lived in a particular area, or who have had experience with a particular organisation/agency.

The Commissioner’s unique position creates a perfect environment to connect survivors who wish to use their voice, with organisations who need them. The Domestic Abuse Commissioner, Nicole Jacobs said:

“It is very important to me that I hear from a diverse range of people with lived experience of domestic abuse and that they are able to use their voice to create meaningful change.

I hear from hundreds of victims and survivors of domestic abuse who want to do just this but haven’t been given the opportunity to do so.

That’s why I am delighted to be launching VOICES today, a platform that I hope will raise the voices of victims and survivors who want to have a seat at the table.”