Independent Domestic Violence Advocacy Service

Independent Domestic Violence Advocacy Service (IDVA) is a specialist service for victims and their families in Stockport who have been assessed at being at the highest risk of murder or serious injury through domestic violence.

What is the role of and IDVA?

The main purpose of the IDVA is to address the safety of victims at high risk of harm from intimate partners, ex-partners or family members to secure their safety and the safety of their children.  Serving as a victim’s primary point of contact, IDVAs normally work with their clients from the point of crisis to assess the level of risk, discuss the range of suitable options and develop safety plans.  

They are pro-active in implementing the plans, which address immediate safety, including practical steps to protect themselves and their children, as well as longer-term solutions. These plans will include actions from the MARAC (Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference) as well as sanctions and remedies available through the criminal and civil courts, housing options and services available through other organisations.

IDVAs support and work over the short- to medium-term to put victims on the path to long-term safety.  They receive specialist accredited training and hold a nationally recognised qualification.   Since they work with the highest risk cases, IDVAs are most effective as part of an IDVA service and within a multi-agency framework. The IDVA’s role in all multi-agency settings is to keep the client’s perspective and safety at the centre of the support.  

What is high risk domestic violence?

High risk domestic violence is a pattern of abuse which presents a risk of serious harm or murder. The SafeLives DASH** risk assessment is used to assist practitioners and professionals with establishing whether the victim may be identified as being at high risk. It is estimated that around ten per cent of all women who experience domestic violence can be described as being at high risk of murder or serious injury.

**DASH stands for Domestic Abuse, Stalking and 'Honour'-based violence

Who is the service for?

The service supports all individuals aged 16+ living in Stockport who are at the highest risk of murder or serious injury through domestic violence. The service is free. All clients are treated with respect, dignity and sensitivity.

What does the service include?

• Risk assessment, risk management and safety planning

• Information and support about options

• Assistance in accessing legal advice and representation e.g. to obtain injunctions or for immigration advice

• Support with court hearings and meetings with other agencies

• Emotional support

• Practical advocacy in regards to housing and benefits

• Support and safety planning for the future

• Representation of the client’s voice at a multi-agency risk assessment conference (MARAC).

Our IDVAs are here to help you and your families to live in safety by accessing the support you need to live you life free from violence and abuse. We are dedicated to providing the highest level of care and all of our IDVAs are all fully signed up to, and abide by the Safe Lives IDVA Charter.