Wigan
Wigan is a large town on the River Douglas in Greater Manchester. Located between Liverpool and Manchester, Wigan was once a major mill and coal mining district and in the 1830’s became one of the first towns in Britain to be served by a railway. Today, Wigan is a lively commuter town that attracts many visitors.
What to see and do in Wigan
- Haigh woodland park – a fantastic day out for the whole family. The perfect place for walkers, there is woodland full of wildlife and a canal, as well as green open space. If you are looking for adventure, take on the high ropes obstacle course up in the sky! There is also an 18 hole golf course, plus adventure golf for the children. Visit the Kitchen Courtyard for a coffee, arts and crafts and more – Haigh, WN2 1PE
- Three Sisters Racing Circuit – outdoor karting for adults and children aged 8 and over. Experience the adrenaline rush of racing round the twists and turns of the circuit and if you prefer to observe, there is a also a cafe on site – Three Sisters road, Ashton-in-Makerfield, WN4 8DD
- The Museum of Wigan life – learn all about the people and places of the Borough of Wigan. Housed in a beautiful listed building, it is where George Orwell researched his book “The Road to Wigan Pier”. Fascinating displays on an array of different subjects including sport and music. Children will also love a day out at the museum, there are childrens trails and activities for them to take part in – Library street, WN1 1NU
- The Old Courts – this stunning Victorian courthouse has been converted into a lively arts centre. With workshops, art galleries, talks, poetry readings, live music, plays and much more, there is always something exciting going on at this venue. There is also a cafe and a bar on site – Gerrard Winstanley House, Crawford street, WN1 1NA
- Wigan Roller Rink – Europe’s largest indoor roller rink! Fantastic fun for adults and children, whether you are a pro or have never skated before. A roller disco complete with music and lights, games and activities, there are qualified instructors at the venue if you require some help. There is also a bar and cafe on site – Unit 2 Eckersley Mill, Swan Meadow road, WN3 5BD
Do you need family law support? We have found the following firms
Stephensons Solicitors LLP – “Stephensons is a leading UK full-service law firm. We provide all of our clients with cost effective, industry leading legal advice.”- Wigan Investment Centre, Waterside Dr, Wigan WN3 5BA
Houghton Pigot & Co – “We are a long-established family firm of solicitors with offices in Wigan and Ashton-in-Makerfield.” – Kenley House, 25 Bridgeman Terrace, Wigan WN1 1TD
HCB Solicitors – “Our aim at HCB has always been to provide a first-class service to clients and to do this we provide as many services as possible to help you keep all your matters in one place” – 14 Library St, Wigan WN1 1NZ
McCarthy Bennett Holland – “MBH solicitors offer a full range of legal services including personal injury, family law and mediation”. – 26 Bridgeman Terrace, Wigan WN1 1TD
Are you thinking about separation or divorce because of domestic abuse?
A common reason for divorce one party being abused in some way by the other party. This could be emotional or physical abuse and for the divorce court comes under the heading of “unreasonable behaviour”. Whilst the divorce proceedings trundle on through the civil court system, victims can find themselves also going through the criminal courts if the Police are involved and there is enough evidence to bring a case.
In recent years, there has been much talk in the UK regarding the law around the subject of Domestic Abuse and divorce with draft legislation proposed by Theresa May in February 2017. This draft was finally released in January 2019 and will now be brought to Parliament for debate. The bill sets out a statutory government definition of domestic abuse which includes controlling and manipulative behaviour. For the first time, abuse does not have to be physical or violent.
The bill will recognise economic abuse, (also known as financial abuse) which is where a partner is prevented from accessing bank accounts or employment. The victim becomes financially controlled. They may not be allowed to go out to work, or if they are employed, their wages may be paid into their partners account or they may not have access to benefits as they are given to a partner. December 2016 saw the introduction of the new law meaning that coercive or controlling behaviour is now a crime. This offence carries a maximum sentence of 5 years imprisonment, a fine or both.
The future
Slowly changes are being made. Escaping a domestic abuse situation leaves victims susceptible to many issues which also affect children as a parent may find themselves homeless, relying on foodbanks for daily essentials along with dealing with their mental health as they navigate the family court system against their perpetrator. Emotions run high and post separation abuse can be rife. The abuser is losing control and many say that economic abuse is the “tail” of physical abuse as the victim is out of arms reach. Read the rest of this article here
