The Power of CCR: Transforming Responses to Violence Against Women and Girls

When we talk about tackling domestic abuse and violence against women and girls (VAWG), one thing is undeniable: we cannot do it alone. The challenges are too complex, the systems too fractured, and the stakes too high. That’s why the Coordinated Community Response (CCR) is so vital—it’s a blueprint for working together, rooted in shared values and collective accountability. 

This thought leadership article is inspired by an insightful conversation with Sally Jackson, Head of Services (CCR and Communities, DHR) at Standing Together Against Domestic Abuse. Sally plays a pivotal role in bringing CCR to wider communities, ensuring the model is embedded where it’s needed most and championing collaboration to achieve systemic change. 

Collaboration That’s More Than a Buzzword 

Sally explains that the concept of multi-agency working is not new, and many organisations already understand its importance. But CCR takes it a step further. It’s not just about bringing agencies together—it’s about embedding shared principles of equity and accountability into the very fabric of that collaboration. 

CCR is not limited to statutory services like the police or social care. It asks us to expand our understanding of community. Whether you are a scout leader, a faith leader, a local hairdresser, or a CEO, CCR challenges everyone to consider their role in creating safer communities. 

As Sally often reminds us, domestic abuse is everyone’s business. It is not something that one sector can tackle alone. By working together—health, housing, education, voluntary organisations, and local leaders—we can build systems that truly support survivors and address the root causes of abuse. 

Why CCR Works 

The brilliance of CCR lies in its holistic approach. Sally highlights how CCR recognises that survivors are whole people with interconnected needs. A survivor is not just someone seeking justice; she may also be a mother, an employee, or someone struggling with housing or childcare. 

CCR ensures that survivors don’t have to navigate multiple agencies, repeating their stories over and over to get the help they need. Instead, the system works for them. It prioritises collaboration and shared responsibility, so survivors aren’t left carrying the burden of their safety alone. 

As Sally aptly puts it: 
“It’s not her job to stay away from him. It’s our job as a system to keep her safe.” 

CCR: A Catalyst for Change 

Here’s the thing about CCR: it does not replace existing services; it strengthens them. By fostering collaboration, building trust, and aligning priorities, CCR enables organisations to deliver better outcomes. 

“It’s not just about harm reduction,” Sally says. “It’s about keeping the ultimate goal in sight: ending violence against women and girls.” 

This means breaking down silos, creating clear strategies, and ensuring that every partner at the table understands their role in driving change. 

In a time of austerity and resource challenges, Sally emphasises the need to look up, not down. “Rather than focusing solely on our individual responsibilities, we must ask: How can we work together? How can we make the biggest impact with the resources we have?” 

Strengthening CCR: Training and Community 

To support professionals in embedding CCR principles, Sally has helped shape resources like the CCR Leaders Course and the CCR Network. 

• The CCR Leaders Course is a comprehensive, Level 4 accredited programme designed to equip professionals with the skills to lead multi-agency responses to domestic abuse and VAWG. Participants learn about everything from the dynamics of abuse to early intervention, perpetrator accountability, and effective commissioning. 

• The CCR Network provides a space for professionals to connect, share best practices, and support one another in delivering CCR locally. With increasing need and depleting resources, this platform has never been more essential. 

A Vision for the Future 

Sally is clear about the long-term vision of CCR: it’s not just a strategy; it’s a roadmap for a future free from violence against women and girls. 

CCR asks all of us to think about our role in that future. Whether it’s through educating young people, challenging harmful norms, or ensuring that every survivor is met with compassion and support, CCR reminds us that change is possible—but only if we work together. 

“The journey toward ending violence against women and girls isn’t easy,” Sally reflects, “but with CCR, we have the tools to create lasting change. It’s not just about doing better today; it’s about building a future where abuse is no longer tolerated, and every survivor knows they are not alone.” 

Let’s keep that vision in sight, and let’s keep working—together.