Agenda item

Following scrutiny, the report was noted.

The Head of Housing and Communities provided a brief summary of the report contained within the agenda pack.

 

Officers provided a presentation on some of the key points from the report and progress made to date.

 

The Chair extended congratulations to staff for an excellent report and for the work that is being undertaken in this area.

 

Members inquired about the measures in place to ensure that partners are fulfilling their commitments and that the data provided is accurate.

 

The Head of Service advised members that the commissioned services in respect of domestic abuse are predominantly funded by housing support grants. The Commissioning team undertake work to monitor services, impacts and outcomes.

 

Members expressed satisfaction that there would be more focus on perpetrators going forward, and requested that the impacts of work in this area be considered as a future item in the Forward Work Programme.

 

Members noted that a dedicated male refuge was available and enquired what was the position for transgender people.

 

The Head of Service confirmed that a variety of services are commissioned directly, including floating support. The support provided is tailored to the assessed needs of each individual. It was noted that individuals are allocated provisions through a national helpline, where they are assessed and provided with a place of safety appropriate to their needs. The Equalities and Human Rights Commission are drafting guidance in respect of the implications of the recent Supreme Court ruling.

 

Members inquired about the extent of engagement with survivor groups to ensure that the strategy effectively addresses the needs of those it aims to support.

 

Officers informed members that the strategy launched in 2023 included a public consultation involving leadership groups, third sector providers, and high-risk victims from the Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) service. Feedback from survivors was instrumental in shaping services, providing valuable insights into gaps and areas for improvement. Continuous survivor involvement is maintained through various aspects of the work, such as communication and engagement groups. This approach helps shape future actions for all involved parties, including health, police, and service providers. While survivor involvement is essential, sharing personal stories in group settings can be challenging. Welsh Women's Aid supports the integration of survivor feedback into the strategy, which will be revised in the coming years using the same consultation process.

 

Members enquired whether plans to dim lights in the county borough align with the aims of the strategy.

 

The Head of Housing and Communities informed members that the lead officer for the lighting pilot project had engaged with Community Safety and partners to discuss the proposals. Prior to initiating the pilot they engaged with the VAWDSAV Leadership Group, Community Safety Partnership Board and Thrive Women’s Aid. A list of areas included in the pilot was provided to cross-check street names against the database, ensuring no high-risk individuals or victims resided there. Incident data is collected and incorporated into evaluations. Upon the pilot's conclusion, the lead officer will present an overview of the results to the Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse, and Sexual Violence leadership group and the Community Safety Partnership Board. Currently, no notable concerns have been reported in the areas where the pilot has been implemented.

 

Members inquired whether the elderly were also being considered within that demographic group.

 

The Head of Service did not have broader information about the pilot, only details regarding the engagement undertaken in relation to VAWDASV.

 

Members acknowledged that the report was in relation to VAWDASV. It was suggested that questions regarding the elderly demographic could be addressed outside of the meeting.

 

Members asked for more detail on bystander training and enquired whether this was available to all staff or only front facing staff.

 

Officers advised members that the Welsh Government launched a national campaign called "Don't Be a Bystander," encouraging people to act if they witness something of concern, whether in public or at work. The campaign is included in national training, with all staff receiving level one training. The type of training varies based on individual roles, with level six training for senior leadership teams and specific training for elected members and customer service staff. Outside of the standard training programme, occasional bystander training is offered by specialist providers or local services, promoted through internal communication channels like Viva Engage. The campaign also involves community "Ask Me" champions who can provide additional help and support. The goal is to ensure the right people are aware of the available resources at the right times.

 

Members commented that the visibility from the front desk to the main door in the Civic Centre has been obstructed, potentially preventing staff from seeing potential issues as they arise. It was suggested that installing glass screens could have provided better visibility and protection for both the public and staff.

 

Members commented on the UK Government’s announcement regarding a pilot scheme for Domestic Abuse Protection Orders. Members questioned whether Neath Port Talbot would be interested in exploring a similar programme.

 

Officers advised members that this was an interesting scheme and has potential for future consideration. Currently, the authority is awaiting guidance from the Police and Crime Commissioner's Office regarding any potential pilots in the South Wales Police Force area.

 

Following scrutiny, the report was noted.