Oasis Domestic Abuse Service welcomes the Government’s announcement to embed domestic abuse specialists within 999 control rooms across the UK.

This is an important step towards improving the immediate response to domestic abuse incidents, ensuring that victims are met with the understanding and support they deserve during their most vulnerable moments.

However, while we fully support this initiative, we have several important questions regarding the implementation of these specialists.

Who are these domestic abuse specialists?

We would like to understand the qualifications and professional backgrounds of the individuals who will be placed in these roles. Are they trained advocates with direct experience in supporting domestic abuse survivors? Will they have the necessary experience to handle the complex dynamics of domestic abuse, including coercive control, economic abuse, and psychological manipulation?

What training will they receive?

It is crucial that these specialists undergo comprehensive and specialised training. We would like reassurance that their training is robust, trauma-informed, and aligned with current best practices in domestic abuse response. It is essential that those in these roles understand the nuances of various forms of abuse and can provide sensitive and effective guidance to both victims and emergency services personnel.

How will these specialists be integrated into existing services?

We would like further details on how these specialists will work in collaboration with police officers, local domestic abuse services, and health professionals to ensure that victims receive holistic and consistent support.

We believe that by addressing these key questions, the initiative can have a lasting impact on the safety and well-being of domestic abuse survivors.

Oasis Domestic Abuse Service remains committed to working alongside the Government and other agencies to ensure that every measure taken will genuinely improve outcomes for those affected by domestic violence, so that what happened to Raneem Oudeh (pictured above on the left) and her mother Khaola Saleem (pictured above on the right) in 2018 doesn’t happen to anyone else.