PCC launches unique domestic abuse service across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight

Just under a million pounds a year is being invested in a potentially life-changing new domestic abuse (DA) service launched by Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones.

The DA Service for People Causing Harm is the first pan-Hampshire and Isle of Wight service of its kind.

The funding is also the largest investment in tackling perpetrators the two counties have ever seen.

Delivered by the charity, Hampton Trust, the core focus of the service is early intervention and sees the introduction of Domestic Abuse Navigators to provide individually tailored trauma-informed support for those who cause harm.

PCC Donna Jones said: “It’s important we intervene with people causing harm at the earliest opportunity.

“Domestic abuse has a devastating and long-lasting impact on both victims and their families.

“We know many perpetrators often have a number of other challenges including drug and alcohol use or mental health issues.

“To effect real change and empower people to move forward and enjoy healthy relationships, we need to look beyond an individual’s behaviours and focus on what their needs are.

“By working in partnership, we can explore innovative solutions to provide comprehensive support to perpetrators while keeping the safety of victims and survivors, including children, at the heart of everything we do.”

In 2024, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary recorded 26,238 domestic abuse-flagged crimes.

There are many barriers that prevent a person seeking or accepting support, particularly with the stigma attached to causing harm in relationships.

This new service consolidates existing provision and, following a referral, users will be offered a range of intervention and support by skilled practitioners in a clear and simple way.

Most importantly it’s free, confidential and available to all – whether people causing harm, victims, concerned family and friends or professionals.

Chief Executive of Hampton Trust, Chantal Hughes, said: “This investment is a big step forward: it allows us to meet people where they are and support them towards healthier relationships, recognising that everyone’s starting point is different.

“Some people will need to deal with challenges like mental health or drug and alcohol use before they can engage with a behaviour change programme. For others, their relationship with their children is the most pressing concern, and that can be the motivation that starts their journey towards wider change.

“Our support is there when someone is ready for it, no matter how small that first step is. Our Domestic Abuse Navigators can offer a tailored approach from day one, always keeping the safety of victims and survivors at the centre while giving those causing harm a real chance to change.”

The PCC is working in partnership with Hampshire County Council, Isle of Wight Council, Portsmouth City Council, Southampton City Council and police.

Kate Harvey, Director of Public Health for the Isle of Wight and Chair of the Isle of Wight Domestic Abuse Partnership Board, said: “Addressing abusive behaviour is integral to a whole‑system response to domestic abuse. By intervening early and providing evidence‑based support, we can help prevent further harm and improve long‑term outcomes for individuals, families, and our wider communities.

“This programme supports protection, prevention, and accountability plus strengthens our commitment to tackling the root causes of abuse and creating safer, healthier lives for all.”

Natalie Brahma-Pearl, Chief Executive of Portsmouth City Council said: “This new service marks an important step forward for Portsmouth.

“By working with Hampton Trust and aligning with the wider county, we are strengthening our response to domestic abuse by supporting people to change harmful behaviours.

“This is about improving safety, reducing risk, and creating better outcomes for victims, families and communities.”

Robert Henderson, Executive Director Community Wellbeing, Children & Learning (DASS & DCS) at Southampton City Council, said: “I welcome the launch of this free, confidential service that will provide tailored trauma-informed support for those who cause harm. This is also available to people who have experienced domestic abuse and concerned family members, friends or professionals.

“Creating a Safer Southampton is one of the priorities in our City Plan, so we will continue to work with partners from across the region to ensure that people can live safe, happy lives free from fear and violence.”