Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner visits Freedom Team

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Susan Dungworth came to Dogs Trust Darlington to meet our volunteer foster carer Claire along with Lauren & Sarah from the Freedom team.

Susan wanted to find out more and raise awareness of Freedom during the UN's 16 Days of Action Campaign following hearing about our appeal for more foster carers across the North East amid soaring demand for the service. 

The visit prompted interest from local press and an interview with BBC Look North.

Susan said:

“Abusers know the power of a pet — and they use it. For too many victims, the fear of leaving a beloved pet behind is the final barrier to escaping abuse. We see a rise in people reaching out for help after Christmas, yet many still stay because they believe their dog or cat won’t be safe. That must change. Through specialist fostering projects like the brilliant Freedom, we can offer a path to safety for both survivors and their pets.

“You can leave — and your pet doesn’t have to be left behind. During the 16 Days of Action, I want to raise awareness of the support available and back calls for more foster carers to help make this possible. No one should have to choose between escaping abuse and protecting the animal they love.”

Northumbria Police shows that the prevalence of domestic abuse continues to remain high, with 1 in 5 calls to its control room being domestic abuse related. The visit from Susan and the press coverage really helps to promote the service to a wide range of audiences in the North East region.