The Power of an Idva
As part of our 16 Days 2024 campaign, SafeLives staff member and survivor of domestic abuse shares why the role of the Idva holds so much power.
News and views
In this library you will find our latest press releases, statements and blogs. Please contact us for expert interview, comment, analysis and data. We have a wealth of experience speaking on television and radio, advising documentary makers, and speaking at national conferences and events.
Featured news
Echo: a pioneering new survivor project
We announce the start of a pioneering new project to transform local responses to domestic abuse, and is calling on survivors across Bolton, Leicestershire and Sheffield to have their voices heard.
Victims and Prisoners Bill becomes law
We welcome the Victims Bill becoming law. However, there is still much more to do to ensure all victims of domestic abuse can access the support they need.
The impact of mental health on the response to perpetrators of domestic abuse
Jonathan Fowler discusses the nuanced approach to working with male perpetrators of domestic violence, to foster responsibility and reduce risks.
SafeLives response to College of Policing report on domestic abuse risk assessment
SafeLives welcome the College of Policing’s continued commitment to improve the response to domestic abuse.
LGBT+ survivors and mental health
Central to the LGBT+ Spotlight was the troubling finding that victims of domestic abuse who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT+) are more likely to experience mental ill health.
Domestic abuse, mental health and homelessness: The Housing First Model
Research has shown that domestic abuse is the most common cause of depression and other mental health difficulties in women. Alongside this, we also know that gender-based violence and abuse is a key cause of homelessness for women.
Role of hospitals in responding to domestic abuse and mental health
Identification and hospital Idvas. Impactful investments by East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust in responding to domestic abuse.
Domestic abuse and mental health: a GP’s perspective
Dr Katherine Pitt, a GP Registrar and researcher, shares her professional experiences of how domestic abuse impacts upon mental health.
Responding to women’s mental health needs
Discover influential practice from NHS Camden and Islington. Shirley McNicholas explains Women's Strategy group and monitoring standards for women in all services.
Young people, domestic abuse and mental health
One in five children have been exposed to domestic abuse. SafeLives estimates that around 130,000 children in the UK live in households with high-risk domestic abuse; that is, where there is a significant risk of harm or death
Response to Home Affairs Select Committee report October 18
We welcome the recommendations of the Home Affairs Select Committee but would like to see more on the importance of a strong response to the person causing harm – the perpetrator.
Response to proposed changes to the Gender Recognition Act
Read SafeLives’ full response to Gender Recognition Act consultation.
Domestic abuse: How can Community Mental Health Nurses respond
Women who have experienced domestic violence and abuse generally have poorer health than other women. Health issues include chronic problems with digestion, kidney and bladder function and headaches, poorer pregnancy outcomes, lower birthweight babies, eating disorders and substance misuse.
Collaboration between Idvas and Community Psychiatric Nurses
Vickie Crompton on the case for collaboration between Idvas and community psychiatric nurses. Read the learning from innovative practice in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.