Support workers who help victims of domestic violence across Hertfordshire have welcomed a pioneering tactic which they believe could provide vital piece of mind.
A pilot project already operating in three police force areas allows a senior officer to issue an on the spot domestic violence protection notice, which bans any alleged perpetrator from the premises for 48 hours.
During those two days, police can also apply to magistrates for a tougher protection order, which can prevent a named individual - man or woman - from returning for up to 28 days.
An order can be issued to a perpetrator without the consent, and even against the wishes, of their victim, so it can be put in place even if a victim feels under pressure to forgive the attacker.
Research by police has shown that the days immediately after a domestic attack leave victims at increased risk of violence and the orders aim to provide immediate emergency protection for the victim, allowing them to explore the options available and make informed decisions about their safety.
If the scheme is rolled out across the country, it could provide vital breathing space for victims who can then use the time to seek further help to protect themselves, say the team at Herts Sunflower.
Jodie Keen, who is the organisation’s independent domestic violence advice team leader, said: “In most cases it will give victims breathing space, and the chance to contact us.
“It is then safer for us to make sure they get all the advice and support they need.”
But Ms Keen, a former sufferer of domestic abuse, believes the victim’s lack of power over the situation could be seen by some as a downfall of the scheme.
She explained: “Herts Sunflower speak to victims in Hertfordshire a lot and they have been through terrible experiences of violence from the perpetrator.
“But sometimes they feel as though they are being re-victimised because things are taken out of their hands. I know that in my case, I wanted to escape domestic violence but I felt that some decisions were being made out of my control.”
Despite this, research by police has shown that the days immediately after a domestic attack leave victims at increased risk of violence.
The aim of the new orders is to provide immediate emergency protection for the victim, allowing them to explore the options available and make informed decisions about their safety.
“I know now that it would have been extremely helpful for me, it would have given me more time to speak to people and get help, knowing that it was safe to do so,” added Ms Keen.
“For the victims we speak to in Hertfordshire, it could be really good because it all comes down to getting the opportunity to seek advice.”
More than 1,800 domestic violence crimes were recorded in the county in the six months to September this year, and two third of them were classified as ‘violent’ - including injury, assault and harassment.
But the statistics show that only about a quarter of incidents result in an arrest, and only one in 20 ends with a conviction.
The scheme is currently on trial in West Mercia, Wiltshire and Mercia and Det Sgt Sharon Avery, the domestic abuse team co-ordinator for the West Mercia force, is a fan.
She said: “In my opinion it is a great piece of legislation. Being able to remove the perpetrator and give the victim that essential breathing space is vital.
“At the time the victim might not like it, but it gives them a chance to move on and get away. Especially when children are involved, it becomes very important.”
“Because it is rare for these cases to end in prosecution, I would like to see the DVPN/DVPO programme continued – it is a great additional tool for police in domestic violence cases.
The current trials will continue until July next year, during which time the Home Office will review the scheme to determine whether the law should be changed.
Ms Keen said: “Until DVPOs come into law, our advice to those suffering domestic violence is to seek support from the agencies that are out there in Hertfordshire, and to contact us because we are here to help.”
Anyone seeking advice and support can call Hertfordshire Domestic Violence Helpline confidentially on 08 088 088 088, at no cost. Herts Sunflower services are available via www.hertssunflower.org. In an emergency, dial 999.
Report by Victoria Bull