Thames Valley Police launches Empower support group for victims and survivors of domestic abuse 

Thames Valley Police has launched Empower, a new support group dedicated to supporting victims and survivors of domestic abuse within the organisation. 

Officially launched on 4 August, Empower has been created and is led by colleagues with lived experience of domestic abuse. The group aims to provide a safe and supportive environment where colleagues affected by domestic abuse can access guidance, practical support and connections to specialist services. 

Empower works closely with Hope After Harm to help members access specialist domestic abuse support and resources. 

Speaking at the launch, Deputy Chief Constable Ben Snuggs said: 

“Domestic abuse can affect anyone, regardless of their role or rank. Empower is a powerful example of colleagues using their lived experience to support others, challenge stigma and create a culture where people feel safe to seek help. No victim or survivor should feel they have to face domestic abuse alone, and this group will play an important role in ensuring colleagues know where to turn for support.” 

Speaking about the launch, members of the Empower Group said: 

“Survivors of domestic abuse have come together with a shared purpose: to break the silence surrounding abuse within the policing community and to ensure no survivor feels alone. 

Drawing from our own lived experiences, we now proudly advocate for Empower, a police support group dedicated to supporting, encouraging and amplifying the voices of domestic abuse survivors across the police service. 

Through courage, resilience and honesty, we are helping to create a culture where survivors are believed, supported and empowered to rebuild their lives.” 

DCI Dave Woodhouse, Deputy Head of Domestic Abuse and Stalking, added: 

“As an organisation, we have a responsibility not only to support victims in our communities, but also to support our own people. Empower is an important step forward, ensuring colleagues affected by domestic abuse know where to turn and have access to people who understand their experiences.” 

The group offers peer support, practical advice, wellbeing support, signposting to specialist domestic abuse services and opportunities to build supportive networks with others who have shared experiences. 

By creating a safe space for open conversations and support, Empower aims to help ensure victims and survivors of domestic abuse feel heard, believed and empowered to seek the help they need. 

The launch of Empower marks the beginning of an important journey, one shaped by courage, lived experience and a determination to make a difference. 

The colleagues behind the group hope that anyone affected by domestic abuse will see themselves in this story and know that they are not alone. There are people who understand, support is available, and help is always within reach. 

Because nobody should have to face domestic abuse on their own. 

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If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, please reach out. You are not alone. There is advice and information, as well as how to report on our domestic abuse webpage. If you are in immediate danger, please call 999.