Council confirms new three-year provision to strengthen domestic abuse support

Cheshire East Council has agreed a new three-year arrangement with YMCA Cheshire to enhance support for victims of domestic abuse across the borough.

Under this provision, safe accommodation will include both traditional refuge-style housing for women and a range of dispersed options for larger families, male victims, and those with more complex needs as they prepare for independent living. The model has been shaped through extensive engagement with victims and local partners, supported by a rapid data review, and reflects the council’s commitment to delivering Best Value. 

Following the children and families committee meeting in September, providers were invited to submit bids to provide safe accommodation. A rigorous procurement process was then undertaken by a panel of experienced service representatives from across the council. The final award has been issued, subject to signing of the contract. The new arrangement with YMCA Cheshire will commence from April 2026.

Councillor Laura Crane, chair of Cheshire East Council’s children and families committee, said:

“Supporting victims of domestic abuse in Cheshire East remains a top priority. Our Domestic Abuse Family Safety Unit works tirelessly to ensure that anyone affected knows help is always available.  

“I’m pleased that we are now working with YMCA Cheshire to increase the availability of safe accommodation for those who need it most. As a council, we provide a wide range of services and collaborate closely with local organisations to maintain strong relationships. This new agreement reflects our commitment under our new Domestic Abuse and Sexual Abuse Strategy, which incorporates feedback from the consultation over the summer. We have increased the number of safe accommodation spaces and are developing tailored support for children and young people living in these settings. 

“Having personally experienced these services, I am passionate about promoting access to support and shining a light on the vital and impactful work carried out by our domestic abuse team.” 

Mark Hills, Chief Executive Officer at YMCA Cheshire said: 

“We are genuinely excited to begin this new partnership and to be able to support people at such a critical moment in their lives. Providing safe accommodation is about more than housing, it’s about offering hope, stability, and a pathway forward for those facing incredibly difficult circumstances. This opportunity allows YMCA Cheshire to extend our reach, deepen our impact, and work alongside the council to meet urgent needs and transform lives within our community.” 

This comes as earlier in the year Cheshire East Council became the first local authority in the UK to receive Platinum Accreditation from the Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance (DAHA) – the highest honour awarded to housing providers for their work in tackling domestic abuse.   

This recognition celebrates the council’s transformative efforts to support survivors of domestic abuse through safe, effective, and compassionate housing interventions. The council achieved this accolade by fully implementing DAHA’s Whole Housing Approach – a comprehensive framework that integrates all housing tenures and support services to meet the diverse needs of survivors.   

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, help is available.

Contact the Cheshire East Domestic Abuse Family Safety Unit on 0300 123 5101, or in an emergency, call 999.

More information is available at: 

www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/domesticabuse