What are IDVAs?
IDVA stands for Independent Domestic Violence Advisor. In Sandwell, the IDVAs are based at Black Country Women's Aid.
An IDVA is a named professional case worker for domestic abuse victims whose primary purpose is to address the safety of 'high risk' victims and their children. Serving as a victim's main point of contact, IDVAs normally work with their clients from the point of crisis to assess the level of risk, discuss the range of suitable options and develop coordinated safety plans. They attend MARAC as the voice of the victim.
Forced Marriage
Practice guidelines for professionals provide step-by-step advice for frontline workers. The forced marriage multi-agency guidelines cover:
the responsibilities and obligations of different agencies working with victims information on protecting, advising and supporting victims
information on making referrals to other agencies and where to turn to for help advice and information for practitioners assisting both male and female victims of forced marriage