DA Responders Scheme
Domestic Abuse Helpline
24 hour domestic violence helpline
Domestic Abuse Responders Scheme
The aim of the DA Responders scheme is to ensure that in each front line service there is at least one member of the team who has received training in domestic abuse, and who has a good knowledge of services and support available.
Over the next twelve months we are looking to further develop our DA Responder’s scheme.
If you would like to enquire about becoming a DA Responder please contact us bdap@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
What is a Domestic Abuse Responder?
What is a Domestic Abuse Responder? A Domestic Abuse Responder is the lead for domestic abuse issues within their agency or team. They will be able to advise their colleagues and ensure that their team are aware of local and national support services and resources. The Domestic Abuse Responders will have access to a network of other Domestic Abuse Responders that can assist in supporting, helping and advising anyone who is or who knows someone that is experiencing domestic abuse either personally or professionally.
What are the benefits of having a Domestic Abuse Responder?
There are several different benefits to having a domestic abuse responder in your team:
For Team/Servicess
- Shows a commitment to tackling domestic abuse
- Increases inter-departmental engagement and working
- Provides networking opportunities
- Single point of contact for colleagues to source the most up to date information, resources and support locally.
For Survivors
- Coordinated support for surviors and their families from local agencies
- Clear and consistent advice for susvivors and information on support agencies
For Individual Workers – the DA Responders
- Increased confidence when responding to domestic abuse disclosures
- Ongoing professional development with access to free awareness raising, resources and networking opportunities
- Stronger links with partner agencies and the chance to share best practice
For more information on becoming a Domestic Abuse Responder then please contact us on bdap@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
Responders’ roles and responsibilities
The Bedfordshire Domestic Abuse Partnership will assist all DA Responders with a two day workshop, which covers many aspects of responding to disclosures about domestic abuse; enabling the Responders to be confident in their role. As a Domestic Abuse Responder you will be responsible for the following:
- To act as a single point of contact for your team or service for any queries on domestic abuse. This involves accurate and effective signposting to services available for surviors, along with an up to date knowledge of services for perpetrators.
- To be able to advise colleagues or clients about identifying risk, safety planning and victim consent.
Our responsibilities to you
- Provide free training courses that are required to become a DA Responder
- Access to our members only area on the website to keep up to date with current information and legislation
- A dedicated point of contact within the partnership to contact with questions and concerns
- Monthly updates from the partnership
- Provision of at least two multi-agency networking opportunities per year
Fore more information on becoming a DA Responder the please contact us on bdap@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
Register to become a DA Responder
you would like to become a DA Responder please complete the application form and we’ll be in touch ASAP