NHS Surrey Chosen for Major Domestic Abuse Support Scheme
Surrey Selected as Landmark Pilot Area for Abuse Support
NHS Surrey and Sussex has been selected as one of just 12 pilot areas across the country to participate in the groundbreaking Steps to Safety programme. The nationally funded initiative aims to transform how healthcare providers support individuals affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence. By uniting primary care practices, borough councils, safeguarding authorities, and dedicated local charities, the scheme creates a joined-up safety net for vulnerable residents. From busy medical centres in central Guildford to smaller family practices in East Horsley, local healthcare settings will become crucial frontline hubs. Medical staff, practice nurses, and administrative teams across our towns will receive tailored training to help them spot early, subtle signs of domestic violence and sexual trauma, ensuring affected individuals are offered immediate, compassionate assistance.
Connecting Surgeries with Specialist Support Workers
A central pillar of the initiative is placing dedicated domestic abuse and sexual violence specialists directly into community GP surgeries. Allison Cannon, chief nursing officer at NHS Surrey and Sussex, emphasised that family doctor practices are unique, highly trusted spaces where people routinely seek care. Under the scheme, clinical staff will have direct access to expert workers, allowing for swift, safe referrals. Domestic abuse can affect anyone across our communities, crossing every demographic. Whether a resident is balancing family life in Woking or liaising with local bathroom fitters on a home bathroom refurbishment in Dorking, hidden abuse often lies behind closed doors. By equipping surgery staff with better tools and direct contact with specialist partners, the NHS aims to ensure that routine medical appointments become safe opportunities for individuals to speak out and access life-changing help.
What Happens Next and How Local Residents Can Access Help
Preparatory work on the initial phase of the Steps to Safety scheme is already under way, with full delivery across Surrey practices expected to commence in early 2027. The scheme forms part of a wider £50 million national commitment that also allocates specialized funding for child victims of sexual abuse. While the new framework takes shape, local healthcare leaders reassure residents that help is available right now. Surgeries, local support services, and regional helplines remain fully operational. Residents who are concerned about a loved one, neighbour, or themselves are encouraged to reach out to their GP or contact established local domestic abuse charities. In an emergency, residents should always call 999. Further announcements regarding practice-by-practice rollout schedules across Guildford and neighbouring areas will be shared as implementation progresses.
Source: NHS Surrey and Sussex part of specialist support programme
