HIDVA (Hospital Independent Domestic Violence Advocate)

Expected outcomes:

• Increased referrals to Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARAC)/reduced repeat offences.
• Earlier identification and support offered in pregnancy.
• Reduction of the number of infants and children removed from parental care.
• Systematic approach to responding to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) via district strategy.

• 206 clients were supported with short-term interactions providing guidance, advice and signposting.
• 42 clients supported on a long-term basis.
• The Maternity HIDVA has shown that it is possible to initiate conversations with pregnant women at risk and assist them in accessing support – something maternity services found challenging.
• Midwives report having greater confidence in initiating conversation due to the training and support offered by the HIDVA and the direct link into domestic violence and abuse services through her.
• The team has been asked to contribute to Shipley College’s new Midwifery Access to Higher Education course.
• Staff report having an increased awareness of impact of domestic abuse and confidence to refer.
• Parents report that they have improved coping mechanisms and positive outlook on future.
• A local support group has been set up for survivors to build confidence and friendships.
• Parents/carers report a raised awareness of the impact of the emotional and physical impact of domestic abuse on their children and are more inclined to accept help.
• The Maternity HIDVA is embedded within the wider HIDVA team across the NHS.