A new specialist service set up to help male victims of domestic abuse has been launched in the West Midlands thanks to the Police and Crime Commissioner.
The new male IDVA service will provide dedicated support for men aged 16 and over assessed as being at high risk of domestic abuse in the region.
Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster has commissioned Black Country Women’s Aid to run the service as part of its Ask Marc programme, which supports men affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence and brings significant expertise in working with male victims with complex needs.
The new regional offer will see a dedicated Male Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) fully embedded within Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC) processes. High-risk referrals will be received directly from MARACs across the West Midlands, with the IDVA team responsible for managing the caseload for male victims.
This will include ensuring agreed actions are implemented, risks are closely monitored and safety planning is continuously reviewed. IDVAs will attend meetings where male victims are discussed, contribute to multi-agency risk assessment and planning, and share information in line with established protocols.
Alongside MARAC support, the service will provide intensive, person-centred support from the point of crisis. This includes:
- Undertaking detailed risk assessments
- Developing comprehensive and ongoing safety plans
- Liaising with police, social care, health and safeguarding partners
- Providing guidance on civil and criminal justice options
- Supporting victims to attend court
- Assisting with access to safe accommodation
- Referring into and working alongside mental health, substance use and other specialist services
The service recognises the experiences and risks faced by male victims, including coercive and controlling behaviour, counter-allegations, forced marriage and so-called ‘honour-based’ abuse, as well as the intersection between domestic abuse, cultural background, sexuality and other complex needs. Practitioners will use recognised tools, including the Respect Toolkit, to ensure safe and accurate identification of primary victims.
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster said: “Domestic abuse can affect anyone, and it is vital that male victims know they will be believed, supported and protected.
“This new service ensures that men at the highest level of risk have access to specialist advocacy and tailored support at the point they need it most.
“By embedding a dedicated Male IDVA within MARAC arrangements across the West Midlands, we are strengthening our multi-agency response and ensuring no victim falls through the gaps.”
Black Country Women’s Aid CEO Sara Ward said: “IDVAs are essential professionals, working to improve the safety of victims of domestic abuse at high risk of harm. This new service will offer a specialist response to high risk male victims through the MARAC process. We look forward to working with partners across the region.”
For more information about Ask Marc, click here.
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