Stockport Domestic Abuse Court has gained national accreditation. It is one of 141 courts specialising in this area in England and Wales. The court was set up under the Safer Stockport Partnership to improve the support and care provided for victims of domestic abuse. It comprises representatives of Stockport Council, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and other agencies, working in partnership with the criminal justice system and partner agencies. Key features of the courts include:-

• trained and dedicated criminal justice staff with enhanced expertise in dealing with domestic violence, including magistrates specially trained in dealing with domestic violence cases

• tailored support and advice from independent domestic violence advisers

• Multi-agency risk assessment conferences to provide protection for those most at risk of harm.

Help and support can be obtained by contacting Stockport Women’s Aid on 0161 477 4271 or the National Domestic Abuse Helpline free on 0808 2000 247 (staffed 24 hours).