Domestic violence: The campaign is stepped up (From Worcester News)

Domestic violence: The campaign is stepped up

1:20pm Thursday 11th October 2012 in News

A FORMER senior police officer with vast experience dealing with domestic abuse has been appointed to tackle the issue in Worcestershire.

Martin Lakeman is a former Detective Superintendent with West Mercia Police, where he served as head of public protection and oversaw major public protection schemes including Sarah’s Law – a sex offender disclosure pilot – and the new Domestic Violence Protection Orders, which have been piloted in Worcestershire with strong results.

His new post as strategic co-ordinator for the Worcestershire Forum Against Domestic Abuse will see him based at County Hall in Worcester.

“I am really looking forward to continuing the excellent work carried out by the Worcestershire Forum Against Domestic Abuse.

"It allows me to continue to work with a range of agencies and individuals who are passionate about making a difference to both the victims of domestic and sexual violence, a passion I share and believe in,” he said.

“Worcestershire has much to be proud of and my role will include building upon our preventative and educational work in schools to change behaviours and culture around violence against women and to help create a culture of respectful and healthy relationships.”

Mr Lakeman’s efforts with the police were recognised with a Regional Safeguarding award in 2010, while he received a Quality People Special Recognition Award when retiring from the force in September.

Tim Rice, community safety manager at Worcestershire County Council, said: “We are delighted to welcome Martin. He has a wealth of experience and a real vision for how we can work towards preventing and dealing with the debilitating effects of domestic abuse within the county.”

To speak in confidence about domestic abuse, call 0800 9803331.