Community & Advocacy Support

Every woman and child experiencing Domestic Violence has different needs. Not all victims of Domestic Violence wish to access refuge accommodation. Some women may want to stay in their own homes or find alternative accommodation in the community.

For this reason The Haven provides a Community Advocacy Support service which offers support to help women devise safety plans, progress housing applications, support with taking cases through the criminal justice system and access to various community support services. The service also utilises the skills of Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVAs) who are able to obtain injunctions and protection orders to ensure the safety of the client. The service also offers emotional support to help women deal with feelings of isolation and experiences of abuse.

One of the key aims of the Community Advocacy Support team is to empower female adult survivors. Therefore the team work with survivors to build a trusting and professional relationship which helps the client to move forward with their lives.

What can the Community Advocacy Support service offer?

  • Safety Planning
  • Emotional Support
  • Support to build self-confidence and social skills
  • Assistance in setting up and maintaining a tenancy
  • Information and support on housing rights and responsibilities
  • Information and support on welfare benefits, including grants and loans
  • Assistance with accessing services, including health, social services and probation
  • Advice with skills development, including budgeting, bill-payment, shopping, cooking and personal management
  • Assistance in developing skills to gain employment- paid or unpaid
  • Advice on training and opportunities
  • Assistance in accessing legal advice and support with court appearances
  • Assistance with establishing personal safety and security
  • Assistance with signposting to cultural, community and social groups or facilities

Women are able to access the Community Advocacy Service subject to meeting The Haven's eligibility criteria

To contact The Community Advocacy Team call 01902 572127 or write to communityteam@havenrefuge.org.uk

The Haven Wolverhampton Community Advocacy Support Service receives funding from Supporting People Programme

 

© 2009 The Haven Wolverhampton