Lord Mayor Margaret Parker launched her civic thematic year Harmony in Every community and Every Home at the Town Hall in August, alongside the council’s new domestic violence strategy.

“It is a real privilege to serve our city and, when I was thinking about what I wanted to focus on during my year in office, I kept coming back to a simple belief: everyone deserves to feel safe, valued and respected, both in their community and in their own home. That is why my civic theme is “Harmony in Every Community and Every Home.

“When we talk about harmony, we often think about neighbours supporting one another, communities coming together and people celebrating their differences. Those things are incredibly important. But true harmony starts much closer to home. It starts in our own families, our own relationships, with our friends and neighbours and our everyday lives. If people do not feel safe at home, then harmony cannot truly exist. “

The Council’s Domestic Abuse strategy will cover the period 2026-2030

“Domestic abuse can affect anyone. It does not discriminate by age, gender, background, faith or postcode. It exists in every type of community and, too often, it remains hidden from view. Too many people continue to suffer in silence. We know that domestic abuse is not only physical. It can be emotional, coercive, controlling, psychological, financial or online. Its impact can be devastating, not only for victims and survivors, but also for children, families and wider communities.

“One of the most important messages I want to share today is this: if you, or someone you know, is experiencing abuse, help is available and you are not alone.” She praised the dedicated professionals, charities , community organisations and support services working across the borough to help and support people on their journey towards safety and recovery.

” All of us have a role to play. We can look out for one another. We can challenge harmful attitudes and behaviours. We can take concerns seriously. And we can have the confidence to speak up when something does not feel right. Sometimes the simple act of listening, checking in on someone, or encouraging them to seek support can make a real difference.

“Throughout my civic year, I will work alongside and support the Council, businesses, charities, faith groups and community organisations across the borough to help raise awareness and encourage these important conversations.

“A particular focus for me will be children and young people and faith groups. I want to support initiatives that promote respect, kindness and healthy relationships, while creating opportunities for young people to have their voices heard. If we are serious about creating lasting change, we must help the next generation understand what healthy, respectful relationships look like from the very beginning.

“My hope for this year is that, together, we can help create a borough where people feel safe to seek help, confident that they will be listened to, and supported to rebuild their lives. I look forward to supporting Cheshire West and Chester Council and its partners in delivering the ambitions set out in the Domestic Abuse Strategy over the coming years.”

Concluding she said ” Together, we can help create stronger communities, safer homes and a future where respect, dignity and kindness are at the heart of everything we do.”

The CWAC domestic abuse policy is at Domestic Abuse Strategy 2026 – 2030 | Cheshire West and Chester Council