DETAILS of extra support in the borough for victims of domestic violence and abuse were announced this week.
Specialist support workers will now be based at the police custody unit in Windmill Road, West Croydon, and also at Croydon University Hospital.
From this autumn, an independent domestic violence advocate will be based at the police base to help high-risk victims and their children.
Work is also under way to recruit a specialist worker for Croydon University Hospital by the end of September.
The council-funded support officer will be the main point of contact for victims, and will work with them from the point of the incident to assess their level of risk, discuss the range of options available to them and develop safety plans.
Councillor Mark Watson, cabinet member for safety and justice, said: "Domestic violence has a devastating impact on the lives of those who experience it, their families and friends.
"This is why we are working more closely with police colleagues to offer an immediate, on-site support service to victims, which increases their safety and improves their pathways to support."
Victims can contact the Family Justice Centre on 020 8688 0100 or visit www.croydon. gov.uk/community/dabuse/fjcentre
