A SCHEME aimed at helping Craven victims of domestic abuse was held in Skipton.

Hosted by the Independent Domestic Abuse Services (IDAS), the aim is to recruit professionals and other members of the community to become a volunteer IDAS 'Champion'.

It is hoped the volunteer champions will raise awareness of domestic abuse and help those who may lack the knowledge and confidence needed to get help.

The champion scheme is funded by North Yorkshire's police and crime commissioner, Julia Mulligan. ?

"Domestic abuse is severely under reported but with more champions volunteering with the service, the more victims we can reach and help," said Mrs Mulligan.

"I am particularly keen to reach those living in rural areas, who can, at times, feel more isolated due to their location and the often limited access to support services like IDAS."

The service says it is often the case that victims of domestic abuse are hidden in plain sight within communities, and have no idea where to turn for help.

And even in Craven, where crime rates are very low, it is an issue that affects hundreds of families.

Chris Davies, IDAS project manager for Craven said the service had supported more than a hundred families in refuge accommodation in the last year and more than 4,000 through its outreach services, including 3,000 in North Yorkshire.

"While Craven, and other rural areas, see lower reporting of domestic abuse, we know that many cases go unreported and some people may experience additional barriers to reporting when living in a rural community," he said.

Mr Davies said there was an IDAS office in Skipton and teams could meet people in safe places across the whole district.

"The Champion scheme is a pioneering way to reach out into rural areas, change attitudes and beliefs about domestic abuse, and ultimately encourage people to have an open conversation that can lead to more people seeking help and support," he said.

Champions may be professionals from health and social care, have roles within educational institutions, be employers, or can be individuals who simply want to make a difference and help people receive the support they need.

Skipton MP Julian Smith said it was a superb joint initiative between IDAS and Mrs Mulligan.

"I welcome their drive to raise awareness of domestic abuse and to get support to those who need it. It is right to look at the particular difficulties that vulnerable people face in rural areas like ours and so I strongly welcome the work IDAS is doing and I encourage members of our community to volunteer their skills and expertise."

As well as providing a free, confidential 24-hour helpline, IDAS also provides an outreach service for people affected by domestic abuse, community-based support groups and access to refuge accommodation. They also employ a team of specialist workers to aid those who are going through the criminal justice system and need support.

To find out more about becoming a Champion email info@idas.org.uk.

Anyone suffering from domestic abuse should contact the police or IDAS on its 24 hour helpline 03000 110 110 or visit the website idas.org.uk. To find out more about becoming a Champion email info@idas.org.uk