NHS Cheshire and Merseyside selected for first phase of national Steps to Safety programme
Wednesday, 7 October 2026
NHS Cheshire and Merseyside has been chosen as one of just 12 Integrated Care Boards to take part in the first phase of a new national programme aimed at supporting victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence.
Announced by the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Steps to Safety is a groundbreaking national programme designed to strengthen the healthcare response.
The programme will support GP practice teams to recognise signs of domestic abuse and sexual violence, respond appropriately and help people access specialist support services within their local communities.
Dr Fiona Lemmens, NHS Cheshire and Merseyside’s Executive Clinical Director, said:
“We are proud that Cheshire and Merseyside has been selected as one of the first Integrated Care Boards in England to take part in the Steps to Safety programme. This is an important opportunity to strengthen how we work across health, local authorities, the voluntary sector and specialist services to support people affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence.
“Via Steps to Safety, we will build on the strong partnerships already in place across Cheshire and Merseyside - ensuring that people are identified earlier and receive timely access to support. This programme reflects our commitment to tackling violence against women and girls and improving outcomes for some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.”
NHS Cheshire and Merseyside is one of just 12 Integrated Care Boards across England to receive phase one funding. The first phase will focus on strengthening partnerships with specialist services and supporting the rollout of specialist training for GPs and practice staff.
Kerry Lloyd, Chief Nursing Officer for NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, said:
“Steps to Safety will help ensure our GP practice workforce has the skills, confidence and support to identify abuse, respond appropriately and connect people to specialist services. It is an important step forward in our commitment to delivering safe, compassionate and trauma-informed care.”
Sarah Martin, Head of Safeguarding, added
“Domestic abuse and sexual violence can have profound and lasting impacts on people's health, wellbeing and safety. We know that many people affected by abuse will access healthcare services before seeking support elsewhere - making primary care a vital part of the response.
“Being part of the first phase of Steps to Safety is a significant opportunity for Cheshire and Merseyside. By strengthening partnerships with specialist services and investing in training and support for our workforce, we can help ensure more people are identified earlier, listened to, believed and connected with the support they need.”