NIASW Responds to Westminster Government’s planned Domestic Violence and Abuse Bill

The Northern Ireland Association of Social Workers today welcomes the planned introduction of a Domestic Violence and Abuse Bill for England and Wales, and calls for improved support for victims of domestic abuse in Northern Ireland.

Speaking following the Queen’s Speech, Carolyn Ewart, NIASW Country Manager said: “While a number of points require further detail, most notably the remit of the proposed commissioner for Domestic Violence and Abuse, the Draft Domestic Violence and Abuse Bill marks a positive step towards protecting victims of domestic abuse.

Ms Ewart continued: “Social workers are fully aware of the problem of domestic abuse in Northern Ireland. On a daily basis social workers support victims of abuse, helping to safeguard them and their children.”

Social workers have worked closely with an array of agencies and professionals to establish systems and safeguards, to protect victims and prevent abuse occurring. However, the current absence of a Northern Ireland Executive places limits on the extent to which efforts to address domestic abuse can be driven forwards.

Ms Ewart finished by saying: “NIASW believes tackling the reality of domestic abuse should be a key priority for our political parties. The Association urges the parties to secure an agreement which will restore a functioning Northern Ireland Executive and enable progress to be made in addressing domestic abuse alongside other urgent social problems.”

Note to Editors

The Northern Ireland Association of Social Workers (NIASW) is part of the British Association Social Work (BASW), which is the largest professional body for social workers across the UK. The Association has 22,000 members employed in frontline, management, academic and research positions in all care settings.

Contact: Andy McClenaghan, Campaigns Officer

Phone: 028 9064 8873

Mobile: 07702 517560

Email: a.mcclenaghan@basw.co.uk