A Macclesfield bank on Castle Street has created a safe space for victims of domestic abuse.

Macclesfield's HSBC UK branch has recently launched a Safe Space desk for victims of domestic abuse.

It is hoped it can help those affected by the crime to people come forward, and be a friendly, confidential space.

David Rutley, Macclesfield's MP, had the chance to visit the Space to see first-hand how it will support individuals going forward. 

Macclesfield's Conservative MP David Rutley was first elected on May 6 2010. Twelve years to the day, as of publication of this article. (Image - Chris McAndrew)

At this meeting in the Macclesfield branch with Geoff Jones, Local Director, David was told how Safe Spaces is an initiative launched by the domestic abuse charity, Hestia, and is part of its UK "Say No More" Campaign. Following a successful pilot study in Southampton, HSBC UK has joined up with the charity and rolled out the initiative across all of its sites in the UK, including Macclesfield. 

This campaign aims to increase the availability of specialist and professional support for victims and provides a discrete space for local people to phone a helpline, contact a support service or talk to a friend or family members. 

All the staff within HSBC UK's branch have completed the national training programme and are ready to assist those in need. HSBC UK in Macclesfield can be located at 12 Castle Street, Macclesfield, SK11 6AF and their doors are open Monday – Friday, 9:30am till 4:30pm. 

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In Macclesfield, domestic abuse and violence against women is a top priority for Cheshire Police who are working hard to prevent and tackle these appalling crimes. At a recent meeting, Chief Inspector Lagar informed David about the steps his team are taking, including: issuing Domestic Violence Protection Notices, promoting Clare's Law and highlighting the Open-Door Campaign. 

Speaking after the meeting, David said, "It is essential that those experiencing domestic abuse and violence have a space they can go to for support and advice.

"Safe Spaces can be a lifeline for these victims, and I am very pleased to see this initiative in our local HSBC UK branch. I hope anyone struggling through a challenging time will seek guidance and receive the help they need."

Macclesfield's HSBC is located on Castle Street (Image - Alexander Greensmith / Macclesfield Nub News)

National domestic abuse cases rose by 6% during the pandemic from March 2020 to March 2021, according to ONS figures.

In March 2021, the number of domestic abuse-related incidents recorded by the police in England and Wales WAS 613,929 incidents.

Earlier this week, Cheshire's Domestic Abuse Court celebrated their first anniversary with the news that they have seen 168 cases pass through their doors.

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