The Domestic and Sexual Abuse Annual report published this week by Sheffield City Council showcases their commitment to tackling violence against women.

The report proposes reaccreditation with the White Ribbon campaign, which is a national campaign that engages men and boys to prevent violence against women and girls.

Today, in the Strategy and Resources Policy Committee meeting, the report was discussed amongst those who attended.

Detective Superintendent Diane Johnson from South Yorkshire Police said: “Domestic abuse clearly remains a priority.”

Alison Higgins, Strategic Commissioning Manager for domestic and sexual abuse at Sheffield City Council, announced that on White Ribbon day, 25 November, they will be hosting a celebration event where schools in the area can showcase the positive work they do to tackle these issues.

She said: “This feels like a real step forward in Sheffield.”

The document includes some key statistics which demonstrate the work that services commissioned by Sheffield City Council undertake to support this issue.

It stated that over 11,000 calls were handled by the Sheffield Domestic Abuse Helpline, 88 safe accommodation units were provided city wide, 524 young people attended sessions on healthy relationships and 1559 professionals were trained in domestic abuse prevention.

These are just a few examples of the statistics that were highlighted in the report.

Councillor Fran Belbin, Deputy Leader of Sheffield City Council, said: “This year’s annual review shows how a partnership approach has been essential to providing much needed support, that has been welcomed by those who use domestic and sexual abuse services.  

“As a White Ribbon Council we aim to make Sheffield a safe and equal place for all. We will never be silent about violence against women and girls in our city.”

Through implementing the White Ribbon action plan, this has allowed the council to commission support for victims and survivors, children and young people who want to change their behaviour, and has reached thousands in the city each year.

However, despite this, it’s important to note that challenges still exist and should be a priority to work on in the coming year.

The report states that at the end of 2024/25 there were 242 cases waiting to be heard in the MARAC (Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference) and an average 10 week wait

It also states the local domestic abuse helpline is the busiest it has ever been since it was established in 2010.

It is important to note that the work outlined in the report is also inclusive of male victims / survivors. 

If you are in need, Sheffield’s Domestic Abuse Helpline is 0808 808 2241.