Marvin Rees, Mayor of Bristol visited Next Link on Thursday 27th October 2016 to launch the enhanced services including extended opening hours, a central Bristol drop in centre, support plans for all children and a single point of contact telephone service.
The Mayor of Bristol said, “I am really pleased that Next Link has launched this new enhanced service to support victims of domestic abuse. It is a tragedy that many women in Bristol are still living in fear and we have to do everything we can to make sure gender-based violence, abuse or exploitation is not accepted.
We need to work together to support women and give them the skills and opportunities to rebuild their lives. Ultimately we must aim to eliminate this kind of abuse from our homes and communities.”
Carol Metters, Chief Executive Next link Domestic Abuse Services explained, “We are delighted to have the opportunity to continue to deliver this much needed service for the victims of domestic abuse across Bristol.
“Together with our provision of safe house accommodation for women with complex needs we are able to offer a range of services to meet the needs of the women we support.
“Domestic abuse is one of the biggest causes of homelessness for women, and we know that they sometimes have experienced multiple and complex problems including mental health and substance misuse issues.
“It is important that women who are experiencing domestic abuse know that it is not their fault and there is help available to make them safe.”