Housing Executive hosts roundtable on domestic abuse with key partners
Key partners from across the housing, statutory, community and voluntary sectors have come together to discuss ways of strengthening support for people affected by domestic abuse as part of the Housing Executive’s annual Domestic Abuse Awareness Week campaign.
Held on Tuesday 20 October at Apex Housing Association in Derry/Londonderry, the roundtable discussion was entitled ‘Working Together to Keep Homes’.
It provided an opportunity for organisations and individuals with lived experience to share perspectives, identify challenges and explore ways to improve responses to domestic abuse.
Representatives from housing organisations, policing, support services, minority ethnic communities, the community and voluntary sector, and people with lived experience took part in the discussion, highlighting the importance of collaboration in ensuring victims and survivors can access the help and support they need.
Opening the event, Teresa McCloskey, Assistant Director of Housing and Communities, ApexHousing Association, said: “Domestic abuse is a complex issue that no single organisation can address alone.
“We were delighted to host this important conversation and bring together such a diverse range of voices. By working collectively, listening to those with lived experience and strengthening our partnerships, we can help ensure that people experiencing abuse receive the support they need at the right time.”
Participants with lived experience of domestic abuse welcomed the opportunity to contribute to the discussion.
Satania Rowland-miller said: “It is always encouraging to be part of a conversation where lived experience is valued and heard. Seeing organisations collaborate to remove barriers and improve support gives hope that positive change can happen for victims of domestic abuse and for Northern Ireland.
The survivors story, the lived experience, is the arrow in the heart of it all.”
Esther Yates added: “When I’m invited to round table talks on domestic abuse, I jump at it because I’m not just representing myself, but others who are experiencing domestic abuse.
“I want to do what I can to make sure my voice and their voices are heard in order to help bring about vital change in legislation and policy.”
Speaking after the event, Elaine McMeekin, Housing Executive Domestic Abuse Lead, said: “Domestic abuse has a devastating impact on individuals, families and communities, and it is vital that agencies work together to provide a coordinated response.
“Today’s discussion highlighted the strong foundation of existing partnerships and the opportunities to develop our collective approach even further.
“The insights shared by partners and those with lived experience will help inform future work and reinforce our commitment to ensuring that home should be a place of safety, not fear.
“By listening, learning and working together, we can turn discussion into meaningful action and improve outcomes for those affected by domestic abuse.”
The roundtable highlighted the value of partnership working in tackling domestic abuse, identifying gaps in current responses and exploring practical ways to strengthen support pathways for victims and survivors.
The event formed part of Housing Executive’s Domestic Abuse Awareness Week programme, which aims to raise awareness of domestic abuse, challenge myths and misconceptions, and promote the support available to those affected.
For more information on domestic abuse support services, visit the Housing Executive website nihe.gov.uk