Launch of new hub to support survivors of domestic abuse Last Wednesday, on 22 September, a new Domestic Abuse Hub was officially opened, at the Barking Learning Centre, opposite Barking Town Hall. This unique hub has been set up by the council for survivors of domestic abuse to provide them with a safe space in the borough, where they can get help and support, run activities and events for other survivors, and raise awareness of the issue of domestic abuse. The launch follows the Barking and Dagenham Domestic Abuse Commission, a two-year initiative that brought together experts, community, and local partners to understand the issue of domestic abuse in Barking and Dagenham and improve council and partner services to support victims. The Domestic Abuse Commission report was released in March 2021. One of the recommendations of the report was to help survivors to set up their own support group and create safe spaces. From that arose the survivors’ group “We Rise”, who as part of their work, have led on the opening of the Domestic Abuse hub and were joined by Cllr Maureen Worby, Cabinet Member for Social Care and Health Integration, who is also the sponsor of the Barking and Dagenham Domestic Abuse Commission, and Cllr Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community Leadership and Engagement.  The hub runs coffee mornings two days per week and if you live in the borough and have experienced domestic abuse, you are welcome to come along and have a coffee and a chat about your needs. Support can be provided with either ongoing referrals or by speaking with someone who has also experienced domestic abuse. Find out more here.