Countywide Service Launched To Support Survivors of Violence Against Women And Girls In Hertfordshire

A new countywide support service for survivors of violence against women and girls (VAWG) launched in Hertfordshire on Wednesday 1st July, and brings together specialist organisations in order to offer survivors a more accessible and consistent, and joined up approach to support.

The service, named the Mimram Gender Based Abuse Support Service, receives its name from the River Mimram, which runs entirely within Hertfordshire. Historically, rivers have been regarded as safe zones, while settlements between them were believed to have been protected; watercourses were also regarded as defensive and purifying, symbolising safety, strength and renewal, all values rooted deeply in the heart of this service.

The Mimram Gender Based Abuse Support Service will act as a single “One Front Door” for all VAWG referrals across the county in order to assure that all survivors can access the help they need quickly and efficiently, regardless of their circumstances or risk level, simplifying access to support. The service also aims to deliver consistent provision of aid across the county in order to reduce variation between local areas, as well as offering joined up support for survivors experiencing multiple forms of abuse, and providing advocacy across all risk levels.

Refuge, Safer Places, St Albans and Hertsmere Women’s Refuge and Asian Women’s Resource Centre, all bring their wide range of expertise in order to partner together to deliver this service, allowing for tailored support for individuals experiencing various forms of abuse. The Asian Women’s Resource Centre will provide specialist support for black and minority ethnic communities, including those who are affected by harmful practices.

Monica (whose real name has not been used), a survivor of VAWG has said that “for Hertfordshire, this is an important service. For survivors, it can be a lifeline. Leaving abuse is hard enough without having to navigate multiple systems while trying to recover and pick up the pieces. Mimram has the potential to help people feel supported, rather than passed between services, giving them the dignity and confidence they need to rebuild their lives.”

The Mimram service is funded by Hertfordshire County Council, Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, and NHS Central East Integrated Care Board and the collaborative investment is reflective of a shared commitment to improving outcomes for survivors across the county.

Councillor Ajanta Hilton, Executive Member for Public Health & Community Safety at Hertfordshire County Council, said “the launch of the Mimram Gender Based Abuse Support Service represents a significant step forward in ensuring that survivors of abuse across Hertfordshire receive clear, consistent, and compassionate support- helping them move towards safety, recovery, and independence. By bringing together specialist partners and creating a single, clear pathway into support, we are making it easier for people tp get the help they need, when they need it”

To contact the Mimram service call 0300 790 6772 to speak to a specialist.

Mondays and Wednesdays: 9am to 5pm

Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays: 9am to 8pm

Virtual support is also available through the website https://www.mimramsupport.co.uk/