Bedfordshire Domestic Abuse Partnership
If you are experiencing Domestic Abuse please contact the 24 hour Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000 247
If you are ever at risk of immediate danger contact the Police on 999
Welcome to the Bedfordshire Domestic Abuse Partnership (BDAP)
The Partnership brings together key agencies across Bedfordshire to raise awareness, to deliver services and to work together to improve our local response to domestic abuse. At BDAP we work closely with local authorities and other agencies to provide services in the local area, we deliver a two-tier training programme for professionals who work with those affected by domestic abuse and we strive to bring all those agencies working locally together to ensure a coordinated response to domestic abuse. BDAP also coordinates the monthly Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARAC) and the Domestic Abuse Champion Scheme in both Bedford Borough and Central Bedfordshire
16 Days of Action Against Domestic Abuse
Each year from the 25th November (the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women)
until 10th December (Human Rights Day)
Each day of the campaign we will be guest hosted by a service that supports those affected by domestic abuse.
Please follow us on social media too @bedsdv
Today is the last day of the 16 Days of Action campaign and today our guest host is Victim Support Bedfordshire
We are at the end of our 16 Days of Action to End Domestic Abuse and Violence against Women & Girls for 2019 and there are 3 things to do with domestic abuse that have been mentioned again and again during discussions with members of the public and that have really stood out for us here at Victim Support’s IDVA Service in Bedfordshire:
#1: It’s often hard for someone to recognise & acknowledge domestic abuse is happening in their own relationship or in the relationship of someone close to them. It’s even harder to talk about it. We know that it can, and absolutely does, happen to anyone. If you are scared or worried about a partner or relative's behaviour then please find someone you trust to talk to; whether a friend, neighbour, colleague, the police or one of the many local and national specialist services available.
#2: Many victims of domestic abuse blame themselves for what is happening & think they should or could have done something to stop it; but we know that the victim is never to blame for the abuse and the only person who can stop it is the abuser. Not only is there support for victims of domestic abuse and coercive control but there is also both local and national support for abusers or perpetrators.
#3: Too many victims say that if someone had asked them directly about domestic abuse and given them the chance to talk about it safely and without judgement then they might have asked for help sooner. This is why we think that routine enquiry in all contacts between professionals & their service users is absolutely vital. Find a safe space to ask, listen and believe.
How can the Victim Support IDVA Service help?
Our Independent Domestic Violence Advisory (IDVA) Service is a SafeLives Leading Lights accredited service reflecting good & safe practice. We are here to offer advice, advocacy and support to high risk victims of domestic abuse across Bedfordshire.
We support any victims over the age of 16 years old that are at risk of significant harm, regardless of their sexuality, gender, disability, culture or background.
If you think you may be a victim of Domestic Abuse:
This is a free service that helps any victims of high-risk domestic abuse in the Bedfordshire area, including those affected by cultural pressures.
Anyone can be affected but it is never the victim’s fault and abuse should not be tolerated. Everyone has the right to live without fear of abuse or violence.
Our IDVAs can tell you about the best help & support available for your specific situation. They will prioritise your safety and that of your children and help you make a personalised safety plan.
How do I contact the IDVA Service?
We provide services across Bedfordshire and have IDVA based in Luton, Bedford and at Bedford Hospital.
Luton IDVA: 01582 488777
Monday to Friday: 8am to 5pm
idva.luton@victimsupport.org.uk
Beds IDVA: 01234 763785
Monday to Friday: 8am to 5pm
idva.bedfordshire@victimsupport.org.uk
If you are a professional and would like to refer to us:
Our core service hours are 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
Please contact the relevant service for your area.
Luton IDVA service also provides an Options Service for any professional and their client to access. Appointments with one of the IDVA team are available every Wednesday between 12pm and 3pm. Please contact the Luton Service for more information.
Click on the image below to visit the Victim Support webpage
Domestic Abuse Bill introduced to Parliament
On 16th July 2019, the Domestic Abuse Bill is to have its first reading in the House of Commons, this will start the process of changing the response to domestic abuse. The Bill, offers support to survivors/victims of domestic abuse and tackles how to bring the perpetrators of abuse to justice.
Click on the photo to read more about this
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook to see what is being said about the Bill.
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