WEAVER Vale Housing Trust has pledged to 'Make a Stand' against domestic abuse and help victims.

The new national campaign, launched by the Chartered Institute of Housing in partnership with Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance and Women’s Aid, constitutes four commitments to support people experiencing abuse.

They include installing a policy to support both residents and staff, directing tenants to various support services, and appointing a champion within the organisation.

Alison Inman, CIH president, said: “I’m thrilled that Weaver Vale Housing Trust has signed the Make a Stand pledge as this could make a very real difference in local communities.

“Domestic abuse is one of the biggest problems we face today. Millions of people are affected and two women a week are being killed by their partner or ex-partner.

“Housing organisations house and employ millions of people and it is our duty to do more to tackle this issue. These are our homes, our people and this is our problem.

“By signing the Make a Stand pledge Weaver Vale Housing Trust has committed to supporting people in its communities and it is no exaggeration to say that this could save a life.”

Make a Stand was launched as part of CIH president Alison Inman’s presidential appeal and Jim Strang has already agreed to continue to support the same cause when he takes the helm in September.

Kelly Henderson, co-founder of DAHA, said: “We are very proud to be part of this pledge and commend Weaver Vale Housing Trust for signing up. We know the housing sector plays a crucial role in recognising and responding to domestic abuse and this pledge is a really easy way to not only demonstrate commitment but also take the first practical steps to improving the response for both staff and residents.”

Katie Ghose, chief executive of Women’s Aid, said: “By signing up to the Chartered Institute of Housing’s Make a Stand pledge, Weaver Vale Housing Trust has sent out a powerful message to survivors of domestic abuse that they are not alone and that there is help and support available to them.”