The IDVA service will be available to support families at risk of domestic abuse from Safe Steps.
To learn more about ABSS programme changes beyond 31st March 2025, visit the Beyond ABSS webpage.
The Early Years Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (EYIDVA) project has provided individual support and/or advocacy for parents of children under four years old who have been exposed to domestic abuse living in Southend. An IDVA completes a comprehensive risk assessment and individual safety plan, tailor-made to each client, to help identify and mitigate risk factors.
Safe Steps will continue to deliver information and specialist services across Greater Essex through Essex Compass. Changing Pathways and Safe Steps will together deliver victim support in the community.
The learning and experience gained from the A Better Start early years IDVA service will inform and influence the services of the future.
To find support for yourself, you can contact Safe Steps in the following ways:-
If you are a professional wishing to refer someone, please complete the online referral form at https://www.essexcompass.org.uk/
For more information about Safe Steps, please visit their website at https://www.safesteps.org/
Visit City Family’s Service Map to explore services available to families across the city of Southend.
Visit our Legacy Resource Packs page for useful resources, links, tips and downloads.