Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVA) Service
The Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) service that offers support, information, practical and emotional support for all those affected by sexual violence experienced in the past or present. The aim of the service is to help you cope with the after impact of sexual violence, whether reported to the police or not.
We are independent from the Police, but our service includes supporting you through the criminal justice process should you chose to report. The ISVA will be specially trained to provide this support and will stay with you throughout your journey and through the criminal justice system and beyond.
You don't have to have reported to the police to access our specialist advocacy service. If you're at the point of considering your options and want more information, an ISVA might be able to help you.
ISVA's can also support you with practical issues that might come up as a result of the sexual violence you've experienced. For example, you might want support accessing services like housing, education or health.
Support can be offered over the phone, face to face, by email or text, you can discuss this once you have spoken to the ISVA who will support you.
You can also access our ISVA Service Policies and Procedures on request to the ISVA service manager.
We Can:
- Provide emotional support throughout the process including support through criminal justice process should you decide to report.
- Help you access other services if you need them, such as health services and housing.
- Help you to develop your own support network in a way that works for you.
- Provide flexible support including evening appointments if needed.
- Keep you informed about the case and attend with you to court.
- Make sure you get the services you are entitled to by liaising with the police and Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
- Support you when you give your witness statement, and at other meetings with the police.
- Help you access counselling when the time is right for you.
