Domestic abuse advocates are invaluable to those experiencing abuse. And as part of this year’s 16 Days of Activism, we’re showing you how.
At PARAGON we work with Independent Domestic Abuse Advocates, or IDVAs, who do amazing work. They act as a first point of contact between local services, like hospitals and the police, and domestic abuse victims.
We place these advocates in hospitals so they can be there if someone needs to disclose their abuse. They also work directly with healthcare professionals to train them to understand domestic abuse. They are trained to know what to do if someone discloses. Our team then works in a multi-agency approach to supporting clients prior to discharge where we pass it on to community DA support.
IDVAs also work with the police. Often going out in police cars when domestic abuse calls come in. Their role is to be supportive and understanding of a victim’s circumstances and to offer advice.
We spoke to Emily about her role as an IDVA in West Sussex.
Working as a domestic abuse advocate
The role of a domestic abuse advocate is varied and diverse. I support people who have either referred themselves or have been referred to our service. People who are experiencing domestic violence.
A typical day varies, of course. But most days consist of visiting client across West Sussex. One common task is completing the DASH RIC. It’s a risk assessment that consists of 24 questions. It’s for professionals and helps them understand and measure risk in order to take appropriate action.
Completing a DASH RIC can be unsettling and uncomfortable for clients. It’s crucial within my role to empower clients by both advocating and listening to them.
Listening to clients concerns and identifying their support needs is critical. Support needs can vary from:
- Mental health
- Housing
- Education
I then aim to implement support by completing referrals to external agencies. These support the client an empowers their road to recovery from abuse.
Client feedback
As part of our ongoing quality control we always ask clients for feedback.
Since you started working with me, my self-esteem has started to return. I have returned to my previous hobbies and I have regained the confidence to deal with other agencies, like the council. Your advocacy for me with these other agencies has been invaluable.
Overall, the work you have done with me has given me hope for the future. Which I didn’t have and the confidence in myself to keep my son and I safe. Not only from my ex-partner, but also in the event I have another relationship in the future.
