Solihull Council has commissioned a Domestic Abuse Needs Assessment to understand the needs of people experiencing domestic abuse in Solihull.
New legislation means local authorities have a number of new legal duties, including to assess the need for local accommodation-based domestic abuse support for all victims or their children, including those from outside the area.
The Council is seeking views from all sides of the issue - from the perspectives of those working in the field and, most importantly, from victims and survivors.
Two online surveys go live today (Monday 12 July) - and Cabinet member for stronger and safer communities, Councillor Alison Rolf, called for as many people as possible to take part.
Cllr Rolf said: “This is such a vitally important issue and we want to learn from the people who know best.
“We have targeted surveys specifically to capture the views of both those with real lived experience of domestic abuse and the professionals working to protect and support them.
“People who have used the services can tell us what is good, what needs to be improved, and give us their ideas and suggestions.
“By listening to a variety of survivors and professionals we aim to build the most comprehensive possible picture of the current situation - what is already available and where there are gaps or barriers and potential for improvement.”
The assessment will be used to help develop services across the borough that better meet the needs of people who have experienced domestic abuse.
All responses will be anonymous and the information collected will be used by Solihull Council to improve services.
The deadline for responses is 30 July 2021