A Street-based PCSO has been honoured at a special ceremony in London.

PCSO Elaine Cave was nominated for a bravery award after surviving an incident of domestic abuse, and using the experience to improve police support for victims of abuse.

In 2020, Elaine was attacked by her partner and chose to be open about her experience with colleagues, to help others. She wrote a blog where she openly sharing her story with her colleagues in Avon and Somerset Police .

This action led to the establishment of a domestic abuse working group, helping and supporting victims of domestic abuse, both inside and outside of the police of which Elaine is an active member.

As well as sharing her story internally, Elaine also spoke to Crimewatch. She remained anonymous and her face remained hidden, but used her own voice and words, showing immense courage.

Her actions in being open and sharing her story has led to some fantastic work by the domestic abuse working group, and she has helped many people feel less alone.

She took that first step in speaking out to colleagues, when she did not have to, not only to encourage people to come forward and know they'll be heard and supported, but also to educate others about the signs that something may not be right for a fellow colleague, friend, or family member.

The ceremony was hosted by Unison, the College of Policing, and the National Police Chiefs' Council and celebrated twenty years since the role of PCSO was introduced.

 Avon and Somerset Police's Head of Neighbourhoods and Partnerships Chief Superintendent Liz Hughes said: "I'm hugely proud of Elaine for representing Avon and Somerset in such a wonderful light at last week's awards ceremony.

"She models our values in all that they do and illustrate the intrinsic role that PCSOs play within the communities they serve, but also in the police family."

CI Andy Pritchard with PCSO Elaine Cave, PCSO Gary Maule and guests.jpg

It is estimated that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime, making it likely that we all know someone who may be suffering behind closed doors.

If you are worried that someone you know might be experiencing domestic abuse, there are steps you can take to help.

It can be daunting and a huge responsibility helping someone who's living with domestic abuse. If you're unsure what to do, then you can contact the local Somerset Integrated Domestic Abuse Service on 0800 69 49 999 for advice or email [email protected].

Somerset County Council offer support through their service, Somerset Integrated Domestic Abuse Service (SIDAS). Their website contains information on how to access confidential help and advice if you have a friend, family member, neighbour or colleague who you think may be in a relationship with a partner or an adult family member who has been abusive towards them. Find out more at: https://somersetsurvivors.org.uk/somerset-survivors/support-for-a-friend-or-family-member/