NHS Cheshire and Merseyside has been chosen as one of only 12 Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) nationwide to be part of the first phase of the new Steps to Safety programme. This national initiative is designed to improve the healthcare sector's response to victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence.
The programme will provide support to GP practice teams, equipping them to recognise the signs of domestic abuse and sexual violence, respond effectively, and guide individuals towards specialist support services available within their local communities. This initiative was announced by the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.
Dr Fiona Lemmens, NHS Cheshire and Merseyside’s Executive Clinical Director, expressed pride in the region's selection. "We are proud that Cheshire and Merseyside has been selected as one of the first Integrated Care Boards in England to take part in the Steps to Safety programme," she stated. "This is an important opportunity to strengthen how we work across health, local authorities, the voluntary sector and specialist services to support people affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence."
Dr Lemmens added, "Via Steps to Safety, we will build on the strong partnerships already in place across Cheshire and Merseyside - ensuring that people are identified earlier and receive timely access to support. This programme reflects our commitment to tackling violence against women and girls and improving outcomes for some of the most vulnerable people in our communities."
As one of the 12 ICBs receiving phase one funding, NHS Cheshire and Merseyside will focus on enhancing partnerships with specialist services and supporting the rollout of specialised training for GPs and practice staff.
Kerry Lloyd, Chief Nursing Officer for NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, highlighted the programme's impact: "Steps to Safety will help ensure our GP practice workforce has the skills, confidence and support to identify abuse, respond appropriately and connect people to specialist services. It is an important step forward in our commitment to delivering safe, compassionate and trauma-informed care."
Sarah Martin, Head of Safeguarding, emphasised the profound health impacts of domestic abuse and sexual violence. "Domestic abuse and sexual violence can have profound and lasting impacts on people's health, wellbeing and safety," she said. "We know that many people affected by abuse will access healthcare services before seeking support elsewhere - making primary care a vital part of the response."
"Being part of the first phase of Steps to Safety is a significant opportunity for Cheshire and Merseyside," Martin continued. "By strengthening partnerships with specialist services and investing in training and support for our workforce, we can help ensure more people are identified earlier, listened to, believed and connected with the support they need."
