Katherine Johnston
Southwark Council has appointed its first deputy cabinet member for domestic abuse.
South Bermondsey ward councillor, Leanne Werner, was given the newly created role at October’s full council assembly meeting.
Like the county as a whole Southwark saw a sharp rise in domestic abuse cases during lockdown.
The council works with Solace Women’s Aid to provide advocacy, counselling, and children’s therapy for victims, as well as conducting a behaviour change programme for perpetrators. And, since July this year, those who are homeless due to domestic abuse are automatically given priority allocation in social housing.
Councillor Leanne Werner said: ‘I’m honoured to be taking on the role of deputy cabinet member for domestic abuse during this critical time.
“The pandemic has seen a dramatic rise of domestic abuse cases across the country. Isolation has shattered support networks, making it far more difficult for survivors to get help or escape.
“Through my role I want to make sure that we have even more safe spaces in Southwark where people can access vital information on specialist domestic abuse services.”
To contact Solace Advocacy and Support Services, call 020 7593 1290 or email southwark@solacewomensaid.org
