Landmark appointment for domestic abuse service

FOR the first time ever, a man has been appointed to the board of West Lindsey Domestic Abuse Service (WLDAS).

Rob Knowles and Tania Hings both stepped up as new directors at the support service’s recent annual general meeting.

The appointment is a landmark for WLDAS which now provides support and assistance to men, as well as women and children suffering or fleeing from domestic abuse.

Statistically a quarter of women and one in six men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime.

WLDAS provides safe, emergency, temporary accommodation and support to any woman – with or without children – experiencing domestic abuse.

Male accommodation is not available but there is support for men experiencing domestic abuse.

Mr Knowles said he was proud to be joining the board of directors.

“I hope my professional experience will strengthen the diverse and talented team who make sure victims of domestic abuse are supported in the best way possible,” he said.

Miss Hings, the other volunteer director to be appointed, is a lawyer with Burton & Dyson. She has a variety of legal expertise, including all aspects of family law conveyancing, general commercial matters, employment and mental health law.

Outgoing chairman of WLDAS Hilary Bennett said: “I am really pleased to welcome the new volunteers to the board. I am sure Tania and Rob will be a great asset to the team.”

Mrs Bennett told the AGM that WLDAS had continued to deliver vital support across the district against a background of reduced funding, organisational and staff changes.

Stepping up as chairman for 2012-13 is Laura Taylor, a solicitor who specialises in all aspects family law at Sills & Betteridge.

She said she was ‘delighted’ to be part of such a ‘critical service to the community’.

Mrs Bennett added: “I know that Laura will bring fresh ideas and a different leadership style to enable WLDAS to adapt and change appropriately to meet the new challenges.”

l To find out more about WLDAS, including current volunteer positions, call 01427 616219 or email [email protected] or visit www.westlindseywomensaid.org.uk

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