A specialist police team dedicated to protecting people in Hertfordshire from domestic abuse has marked its 10th birthday.
Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Domestic Abuse Investigation and Safeguarding Unit (DAISU), based at Hatfield Police Station, reached the milestone this month.
Launched in 2016, the department sits within the constabulary’s Public Protection Command and is the constabulary’s largest specialist investigation unit. As well as investigations, the team works to safeguard and protect people from domestic abuse.
The unit is a central part of the force’s response to Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) – who represent 80% of the victims the department helps protect and support. The team also supports male victims as well though.
The DAISU has pioneered the force’s safeguarding and protection measures for those experiencing domestic abuse and their families, often working with a range of partner agencies including charities and service providers.
It has also developed evidence‑led prosecutions where victims may feel they cannot support police or court action, and use of ‘Clare’s Law’ where someone is informed if their partner has a history of violence. The team also specialises in civil orders like Domestic Violence Protection Orders or Stalking Prevention Orders.
The team deals with any abuse occurring within an intimate or previous intimate relationship. Abuse can include coercive and controlling behaviour, stalking, financial, sexual and other kinds of abuse.
Assistant Chief Constable Nick Caveney said: “The DAISU has been a cornerstone of our commitment to tackling VAWG. It plays a vital role in supporting and protecting people experiencing domestic abuse and bringing perpetrators to justice.
“In 10 years, the unit has grown and adapted to meet new challenges to offer the best possible service to the public. The dedication and professionalism shown by the team over the past decade has no doubt protected a huge number of people and improved the lives of many.”
Anyone affected by domestic abuse can get information about independent help and support at www.herts.police.uk/domesticabuse, or www.hertssunflower.org or by calling the Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline on 08 088 088 088.
In an emergency, always dial 999. Non‑emergency reports to police can be made online, via web chat, or by calling 101.
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