A police car dedicated to attending domestic incidents as they are reported is now operating in Wigan, with a Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officer and independent domestic violence advisor (IDVA) in the vehicle.
“Having that balance of both a police officer and an IDVA responding to DA incidents is working extremely well, resulting in some already fantastic outcomes and interventions in our communities,” said chief inspector Clare Anderson of the constabulary’s Wigan district.
The aims behind the car’s use are to respond to domestic incidents effectively and quickly, provide a well-rounded approach to safeguarding victims, and tackle perpetrators of domestic abuse immediately.
GMP hopes the innovation will help empower victims to choose their next steps, such as pursuing legal action or opting for evidence-based prosecution.
Funding for the new service has come from Wigan Council, the NHS and other agencies as well as the police force.
