BEST PRACTICE GUIDANCE FINAL 2011/12
SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE BEST PRACTICE GUIDANCE ON IDENTIFYING AND RESPONDING TO DOMESTIC ABUSE 2011/12 1
BEST PRACTICE GUIDANCE FINAL 2011/12
Document Status: DRAFT FOR CONSULTATION
Current Version:
Consultation:
Publication Date:
Review Date:
Contact Officers:
Final: March 2012
Partnership Against Domestic Abuse: 22nd Feb 2012
March 2012
12 months from date of publication with ongoing
feedback via the MARAC Administrator and/or Domestic
Charlotte Leason, Domestic & Sexual Violence Coordinator
Sophie Jarrett, Violent Crime Technical Administrator
South Gloucestershire Council
Tel: 01454 868751
[email protected]
[email protected]
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CONTENTS
Page: 1. Introduction
4 1.1 Definition of Domestic Abuse
1.2 Purpose of the guidance
1.3 Guidance Review
4 5 5 2. Process Flow Charts
6 3. Identifying Domestic Abuse
8 3.1 Routine/selective enquiry
3.2 Signs and Symptoms
3.2.1 signs and symptoms for adults
3.2.2 signs and symptoms for CYP
3.3 Risk Factors
3.4 Asking Questions
8 8 8 9 9 11 4. Responding to Domestic Abuse
13 4.1 Immediate safety actions/measures
4.1.1 Victims Safety
4.1.2 Professional Safety
4.1.3 Immediate referrals
4.1.4 Agency form filling and record keeping
13 13 14 14 15 5. DASH Risk Assessment
16 5.1 When to use the DASH
5.2 How to use the DASH
5.3 Outcome of the DASH
5.4 Revealing the results of the DASH to the victim
5.5 Identifying risks to CYP
16 16 17 17 18 6. Responding to the DASH Risk Assessment
19 6.1 Responding to standard/medium risk cases
6.2 Responding to high risk cases
19 20 7. Guidance on Safety Planning
21 7.1 Safety planning if the victim leaves
7.2 Safety planning if the victim stays
7.3 Safety planning for CYP
21 22 24 8. Key contacts
25 9 Appendices
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1. INTRODUCTION
The South Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Partnership advocates a collaborative
and consultative approach to the strategic and operational response to domestic
abuse, which will hold the involvement and active participation of service-users as a
core value.
The Partnership maintain that domestic abuse is a fundamental infringement of an
individual’s basic human rights and must never be tolerated, further it is our collective
responsibility to challenge and appropriately respond to domestic abuse inclusively
for the communities we serve.
The South Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Partnership aims to achieve: an
increased ‘zero tolerance’ attitude to violence; the implementation of robust initiatives
and policies that work to prevent, protect and provide for all individuals and families
affected by domestic abuse; and a collaborative effort that acknowledges the intrinsic
links with safeguarding children and adults. All of which will ensure an appropriate
multi-agency response to domestic abuse that will enable those affected to change
their lives so that they may no longer live in fear.
1.1
Definition of Domestic Abuse
For the purposes of the South Gloucestershire Partnership Against Domestic Abuse,
its Subgroups, the South Gloucestershire Specialist Domestic Violence Court and the
Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences; the definition of Domestic Abuse is:
“The use, attempt or threat of violence; whether physical, emotional, sexual,
psychological or economic, within an intimate and/or family-type relationship.
Domestic Abuse forms a pattern of coercive and controlling behaviour”*
*Domestic Abuse occurs across society, regardless of age, gender, race, sexuality,
wealth and geography. Research shows, however, that it consists mainly of violence
by men against women and it is not necessary for partners to have cohabited.
The terms ‘domestic abuse’ and ‘domestic violence’ are often both used, and whilst
the South Gloucestershire Partnership Against Domestic Abuse will refer to ‘abuse’ it
is acknowledged that the terms can be used interchangeably, and both terms refer to
the above definition.
From 1st December 2010, Avon and Somerset Constabulary will use the following
definition of domestic abuse:
‘Any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, physical,
sexual, financial or emotional) between persons aged 16 or over, who are or have
been intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender and sexuality’.
Family members are defined as mother, father, son, daughter, brother, sister and
grandparents, whether directly related, in-laws or step-family
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1.2
Purpose of the Best Practice Guidance document
The purpose of the ‘South Gloucestershire Best Practice Guidance on Identifying and
Responding to Domestic Abuse’ document is to:
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Provide guidance on best practice procedures for identifying cases of
Domestic Abuse and responding in the most appropriate way
To provide guidance on dealing with domestic abuse cases risk assessed as
‘Standard or Medium’ risk, and to sign post to relevant documentation on
dealing with ‘High Risk’ cases.
Establish accountability and responsibility amongst practitioners
Answer key questions about identifying and responding to cases of Domestic
Abuse.
The guidance is designed to ensure that practitioners are best placed to respond
correctly to cases of Domestic Abuse, and the guidance should be read in
conjunction with local and national policies on Safeguarding Adults and Children &
Young People, along with the South Gloucestershire MARAC Operating Protocol.
The guidance is not aimed to provide an exhaustive list of possibilities for responding
to Domestic Abuse, and practitioners should be aware of any procedures that their
own agencies hold in dealing with such cases.
Note: As of 13th April 2011, the Local Authority holds a statutory obligation to
consider conducting a Domestic Homicide Review (should a death occur within
South Gloucestershire as a result of Domestic Abuse). This guidance is therefore
designed to ensure that all agencies have the opportunity to put actions in place, and
ensure that should a review take place you and your agency did all you could.
1.3
Guidance Review
This guidance will be reviewed annually from the date of publication by the South
Gloucestershire Partnership Against Domestic Abuse.
Requests for additions or changes should be made in the first instance to the
Domestic and Sexual Violence Coordinator or MARAC Administrator at South
Gloucestershire Council, Safer & Stronger Communities Division
[email protected]
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2. Process Flowcharts
The below charts demonstrate the different recommended processes for dealing with
Domestic Abuse:
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3. Identifying Domestic Abuse
If the person you have come into contact with has not openly disclosed Domestic
Abuse, but you suspect there may be an issue, you should consider what possible
signs or symptoms they are displaying which may indicate that they are experiencing
Domestic Abuse.
3.1 Routine/Selective Enquiry
It is important that practitioner’s remain aware of the possible signs or risk factors
that may indicate that domestic abuse is happening and to remember the dynamics
displayed within abusive relationships. This awareness of Domestic Abuse should
become part of an everyday working pattern, ensuring that any suspicions or
confirmation of abuse are investigated and dealt with appropriately.
Practitioners should remember not to be afraid to listen and trust their
professional instinct.
3.2 Signs and Symptoms
It is impossible to know with some certainty what goes on behind closed doors, but
there are many signs and symptoms that can be attributed to Domestic
Violence/Abuse that may highlight a cause for concern.
It is essential that if you suspect any of the signs or symptoms of Domestic Abuse,
that you take them seriously, investigate further and keep accurate records of your
enquiry.
3.2.1 Signs and Symptoms for Adults
The below list should not be considered as an exhaustive list of the signs and
symptoms that a person may portray should they be experiencing Domestic Abuse,
but are indicators that may be recognised by professionals in their contact with
potential victims.
Other behaviours not listed below may be highlighted as a cause for concern and
warrant further investigation.
Signs and Symptoms that may be displayed by an adult experiencing
Domestic Abuse
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Injuries inconsistent with the
explanation
Person reluctant to speak in front of
partner / family member
Partner / family member always
speaks on behalf of the person
Person appears fearful of
partner/family member
Person is belittled/humiliated by
Partner/family member
Low self-esteem / Depression /
Mental Health Complaints
Substance Misuse – Drugs / Alcohol
Pregnancy
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Frequent appointments for vague
symptoms
Avoidance tactics – missed
appointments, difficult to engage
Person received frequent, harassing
phone calls from their partner/family
member
Peron is isolated from family or
friends
Bruises and injuries in ‘hidden’ areas
/ hides or minimises injuries
Have limited access to
money/restrictions on use of money
Denial of abuse
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3.2.2 Signs and Symptoms for Children and Young People
Children who live with Domestic Abuse face increased risk for their safety and
wellbeing and experience great disruption within their lives. The impact of
experiencing Domestic Abuse can vary according to the child or young person, and
therefore the below list provides examples of behaviours that may be displayed, but it
should be acknowledged that other behaviours may be highlighted by children and
young people as a cause for concern during your enquiries.
Signs and Symptoms that may be displayed by a Child or Young Person
experiencing Domestic Abuse
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Poor reflective functioning
Limited capacity to explore & play,
Poor emotional regulation
Poor conflict resolution skills
Increased internalizing symptoms
(withdrawn)
Externalizing problems (acting-out)
Decreased cognitive functioning
Issues with social skills
Appear anxious and frightened of
parent (s)
Aggressive or confrontational
behaviour
Appear concerned for parent (s)/
protective of parent (s) or siblings.
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Disordered Attachments
Hyper-vigilance, hyper-activity &
heightened arousal
‘Symptoms’ may be misdiagnosed or
wrongly assessed as illness (ADHD,
Conduct Disorder, Anxiety,
Depression), learning difficulties or
naughtiness
Lack of school attendance/attainment
Low self esteem
Distrustful
Appear desensitised to certain
behaviours
Unexplained or frequent illness
3.3 Risk Factors
An important aspect of identifying Domestic Abuse is to understand the factors or
behaviours that are considered to be of risk to the victim and/or their children.
The following list demonstrates the ‘high risk’ factors of Domestic Abuse, which you
should remain aware of during your enquiries, and during any safety planning
processes you may undertake. If these high risk factors are present, you will need to
consider conducting a risk assessment and making onward referrals (see section 4).
High Risk Factors of Domestic Abuse
Victim Perception
The victim is the person who understands the situation to its fullest, and if they
therefore feel at risk, it is likely that they are at risk of harm or further abuse. It
is also important to consider that some victims may minimise the risk, and
therefore your professional judgement will be key to ensuring their safety.
Separation
When a victim chooses to leave their abusive relationship, or has recently
separated their risk level of serious harm or death increases dramatically. The
victim may be trying to leave, and the perpetrators reaction to this may increase
the risk level.
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Child Contact
If no arrangement is in place for child contact, this can be of risk to the victim
and the children, as it may be an aggravating factor for further abuse and
harassment. The victim may also be putting themselves in danger should they
meet the perpetrator for the purposes of child contact. Arrangements for child
contact will ideally not involve the victim having to be present during a
‘handover’ period.
Stalking
Stalking cases should be taken very seriously. You may notice a large number
of psychological abuse/behaviours (coercive control and jealous surveillance)
happening before any physical violence takes place. Be warned that the
physical violence may only take place at the actual homicide event itself. Police
should be contacted if there are serious concerns.
Pregnancy or
New Birth
Pregnancy and the months following birth are often when the abuse may begin,
or when abuse may escalate in frequency and severity.
Child Abuse
Escalation
Controlling/jealo
us behaviour
Use of Weapons
Threats to
Kill/Strangulation
Sexual Assault
Honour Based
Violence
Pet Abuse
Alcohol and
Drugs/Mental
Health
Suicide/Homicide
Children and young people can suffer as a consequence of domestic
violence/abuse occurring within their household. They may experience direct
physical, sexual or emotional abuse, and/or the abusive impact of witnessing or
being aware of abuse to a parent.
Abuse may increase in the frequency in which it occurs, or in the severity of the
abuse experienced.
Controlling or jealous behaviour is often used to control the victim, and may
result in the victim being isolated from family/friends, unable to access funds,
unable to leave the house (or leave alone) and may have certain behaviours
imposed upon them (ways they are expected to behave). This behaviour may
also result in the victim believing that the abuse is their fault.
This may not always be use of a well known weapon such as a knife/gun etc, it
may actually be the use of a household object such as lamp, remote control
etc, or even a car (consider dangerous driving to either attempt to harm the
victim or as a means of threatening the victim)
Threats to kill are an important factor particularly if the victim believes these
threats to be true, and should be taken seriously. Strangulation is often
considered to be a threat to kill in itself, and also links to the controlling
behaviour of the perpetrator.
Sexual abuse is often a component of domestic violence/abuse - for example,
partners and former partners may use force, threats or intimidation to engage in
sexual activity; they may taunt or use degrading treatment related to sexuality,
force the use of pornography, or force their partners to have sex with other
people. Rape and sexual assault are crimes.
“A crime or incident, which has or may have been committed, to protect or
defend the honour of the family and/or community". (Definition of Forced
marriage unit, Home Office)
Abuse of pets can often be a prerequisite for further abuse on a partner/family
member. It can also be used by the perpetrator as part of their controlling and
coercive behaviour
Alcohol/drugs may often play a part in incidents of domestic abuse, but should
not be considered a cause of the violence. They may both also be used as
another form of control over the victim; by forcing to take substances or
withholding substances. Mental health of the victim and perpetrator are also
important factors to consider as a possible risk, along with depression.
Suicide or threats of suicide from the perpetrator can often be explained as a
form of control over the victim. In the victim, this may indicate depression, or
lack of ability to cope with the situation any longer. Domestic Homicide is the
ultimate risk factor, and one that should be prevented as much as possible by
those aware of the other risk factors listed above. Actions taken to protect the
safety and wellbeing of the victim and their children are a form of homicide
prevention.
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3.4 Asking Questions
3.4.1 A person reports that they have been subject to Domestic Abuse
Where a person contacts you or a member of your team to report an incident of
domestic abuse, the member of staff taking that initial report should be mindful that
this may be the person’s only opportunity to freely report an incident of domestic
abuse. The member of staff should, where possible and appropriate interview the
person immediately or arrange for a formal interview within 24 hours of the report or
the next working day.
3.4.2 You suspect Domestic Abuse
Where a member of staff suspects that a person is the victim of Domestic Abuse,
though the person hasn’t actually confirmed this, the member of staff should carefully
ask probing questions in order to try and ascertain whether their suspicions are
correct (ensuring you are happy it is safe to do so and the person is comfortable). If it
appears that the person is a victim of Domestic Abuse, they should offer support and
advice and follow the steps below:
1. Remember the person may be distressed and it may not be the most
appropriate time to get full details, however do try and get as many details as
possible. The interview should take place at a safe location for both the
victim/survivor and the member of staff. The member of staff should also offer
the victim/survivor the chance to talk to a police officer at the same time.
2. Ideally the member of staff should obtain as much information as possible
straight away. Staff should be sensitive to the victim/survivor’s feelings and
situation, and provide the victim/survivor with the options for venues and time
of interview. Victims/survivors should also be provided with information about
safe homes, police and other relevant organisations. For details of support
and advice agencies see the South Gloucestershire Directory of Domestic
Abuse Services
3. At all times staff should be mindful of their own personal safety. The
victim/survivor should also be offered the choice of being interviewed by a
member of staff of the same sex. At the end of the interview the member of
staff should read out the written account and request the interviewee to sign
it. The member of staff should then counter-sign the record. The member of
staff should take the victim’s/survivors contact details/phone number along
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with details of when it is safe and convenient to make contact with them. If
relevant also get authority for police disclosure at this time.
It is important you are mindful of procedures already in place within your own
agency, and the above should be considered as best practice guidance only.
3.4.3 Appropriate questioning
In asking questions it is important that you remain non-judgemental, listen and be
aware of your reaction – it is not your place to come up with a solution. Quite often
people will deny what is happening, but you have opened a door that they know is a
route for support should they need it.
People experiencing abuse say they need to be asked – this can be done carefully
and sensitively:
• How did your injury happen?
• Is everything OK? / Are you safe to return to…?
• I have seen injuries / behaviours like this before, and that time the
person had been hurt by someone – are you sure everything is OK?
• T.E.D… Tell me, Explain to me, Describe to me…
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Think about safety before asking any questions – can anyone over hear you?
Do your colleagues know where you are?
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The perpetrator is in the house… or is present
o Don’t ask or don’t continue with your questions
o Ask them when / where is safe to talk
o Create an opportunity as soon as possible to see them alone, are you
with a colleague? Can they distract the perpetrator?
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The person is denying everything…
o You have opened a door… they know you are interested.
o Offer some options and leave information if it is safe to do so
o Try again another time soon
o Are they talking to anyone? Can you work in partnership?
It is important to note that you or your agency may have a procedure in place to deal
with questioning, and the above are suggestions, not an exhaustive list. It is possible
for you to be inventive in your questioning, and come up with other ways to ensure
you support the victim.
Once the victim has disclosed details of their abuse to you, you are then able to
ensure you respond the situation appropriately, and take action to ensure their
safety.
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4. Responding to Domestic Abuse
4.1 Immediate Safety Actions/Measures
If you have identified a victim of domestic abuse, you need to consider taking
immediate safety actions to reduce and manage the risk.
Necessary actions will depend on whether you are with the victim and they are safe
in the immediate future, or whether they are still in a vulnerable location e.g. with the
perpetrator.
4.1.1 Victims Safety
Once domestic abuse has been confirmed by the victim, it is important that you take
immediate safety actions to ensure the risk to them will be reduced in the short term.
It is likely that you will aim to ensure their safety until you are able to meet with them
again and put together a full safety plan.
The following list provides some examples of the immediate safety actions you may
take. Please be aware that this list is not exhaustive, and your agency may have
other procedures in place that may secure the victims safety:
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In an emergency always call the Police on 999.
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Is the person hurt? Consider if you need to call an ambulance or contact
another health care provider.
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Are there children or vulnerable adults present? Consider if you need to make
an onward safeguarding referral (see Appendix 1).
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Does the person have somewhere safe to stay tonight?
o
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Can they stay with friends or family?
Do they need temporary accommodation? (See the South
Gloucestershire Directory of Domestic Abuse Services for information
on where to seek refuge provision and emergency accommodation).
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Has a crime been committed or is it likely a crime will be committed? Contact
the Police on 999 or through the non-emergency number 101.
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Ensure you provide the victim with any emergency contact numbers, including
a way of contacting you should they need to.
Note: If you work primarily with the perpetrator, meeting with the victim may increase
their risk levels. You may therefore need to ensure a referral to specialist services is
made so that it can be dealt with appropriately.
It is important that you remember that the duty of care remains with you until
you appropriately hand the risk to someone else.
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4.1.2 Professional Safety
Once you have secured the victims safety, it is also important to consider your own
safety, in terms of personal safety and professional safety.
The following list provides some examples of what you should consider to ensure
your safety. Please be aware that your agency may have its own procedures you
may need to follow in the first instance.
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Ensure you inform your line manager or designated safeguarding officer
about your concerns and agree a course of action.
Ensure your line manager is aware of your involvement, and they are
informed of your attendance at any meeting with the victim that may be
outside of your office environment.
Seek further professional advice as appropriate (See the South
Gloucestershire Directory of Domestic Abuse Services for information)
Collate and record all necessary information (see section 4.1.4)
Make appropriate referrals (see section 4.1.3)
Conduct a risk assessment (see section 5 on the DASH)
Don’t make promises you can’t keep – remember safeguarding ‘trumps’
confidentiality
Don’t make judgements, believe what they are telling you (it is probably not
your role to decide what is true)
Ask the person what they need to make them safe and how you can help.
4.1.3 Immediate Referrals
Once you have addressed all safety measures, it is important that you consider
making onward referrals to specialist services. Referrals you make will be dependent
on the individual situation, but the list below provides some examples:
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CAF
Children and young people’s services
Safeguarding adults
Survive
Next Link
Drug and alcohol services
Debt advice
Housing support
Contact details for making referrals can be found in the South Gloucestershire
Directory of Domestic Abuse Services. (Also see appendix 1)
Once you have conducted a risk assessment, you should also refer the case to
MARAC if the result is ‘high risk’ (see section 5).
You may also wish to consider what support the victim may already be receiving, or
whether any other agencies are already involved and consider partnership working.
It is important that you remember that the duty of care remains with you until
you appropriately hand the risk to someone else.
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4.1.4 Agency form filling and record keeping
It is very important that you keep accurate records of your involvement. Your agency
may have its own record keeping procedures, but the following provides some
information on the key pieces of information to record:
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Names – who you are concerned about and other relevant parties
(perpetrator, children).
Date of birth
Addresses
Contact details – are these safe?
Summary of what has happened – try to distinguish between fact and
allegation
Description of what you have seen – injuries, disruption in the home, damage
to property
What does the person want?
Photographs?
Dates and times
Who else have you spoken to? What was said? What was agreed?
What actions are you going to take or have you already taken?
Who are you referring to?
Have you done a risk assessment? What was the outcome
Have you got consent from the person to refer – if not, on what grounds are
you sharing the information?
What is your professional judgement
Anything else that you consider to be important
Remember: it is important that you retain such records in a secure file marked as
confidential. You will also need to ensure all relevant colleagues are aware of where
the records are kept in the event that they will need to pick up on the case in your
absence.
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5. DASH Risk Assessment
The South Gloucestershire Partnership Against Domestic Abuse advocate the use of
the ACPO DASH (2009) risk assessment tool to determine the level of risk of a
domestic abuse case (see Appendix 2) the risk assessment tool can also be
downloaded from www.dashriskchecklist.co.uk.
The purpose of the ACPO DASH is to give a consistent and practical tool to
practitioners working with victims of domestic abuse to help them identify those who
are at high risk of harm. The risk factors included in the DASH (2009) are evidence
based, drawn from extensive research by leading academics in the field of domestic
homicides, ‘near misses’ and lower level incidents.
5.1 When to use the DASH (2009) Risk Assessment Checklist
The checklist should be used whenever a professional receives an initial disclosure
of domestic abuse. It is designed to be used for those suffering current rather than
historic domestic abuse and, ideally, should be used as a rapid response to an
incident of domestic abuse. If you are concerned about the risk to a child/children or
a vulnerable adult you should make a referral to the appropriate department to
ensure that a full assessment of their safety and welfare is made – this may be in
addition to or instead of a MARAC referral see (MARAC Operating Protocol) for
Safeguarding Children Thresholds Guidance and Appendix 1 for local safeguarding
referral pathways.
Risk in domestic abuse situations is dynamic and can change very quickly. As and
when things change the risk assessment must be re-visited and reviewed.
Using an evidence-based risk identification and assessment model always improves
the decisions being made. It also increases the likelihood of the victim being
responded to appropriately and therefore of correctly addressing the risks they face.
5.2 How to use the DASH (2009) Risk Assessment Checlist
The Risk Checklist should be introduced to the victim within the framework of
your agency’s:
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Confidentiality Policy
Information Sharing Policy and Protocols
MARAC Referral Policy and Protocols
Before you begin to ask the questions in the Risk Checklist:
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Establish how much time the victim has to talk to you?
Is it safe to talk now?
What are safe contact details?
Establish the whereabouts of the perpetrator and children
Explain why you are asking these questions and how it relates to the MARAC
Whilst you are asking the questions in the Risk Checklist:
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Identify early on who the victim is frightened of – ex partner/partner/family
member
Use gender neutral terms such as partner/ex-partner. By creating a safe,
accessible environment LGBT victims accessing the service will feel able to
disclose both domestic abuse and their sexual orientation or gender identity
The ACPO DASH consists of 27 questions, written in a specific order to aid
completion. Of these 27 questions, 15 relate to ‘High Risk’ indicators. Positive
answers to question 8 (stalking) and question 20 (Honour-Based Violence) can also
lead to the completion of some additional questions available within the document.
In order to get a comprehensive assessment of risk it is important to ask all of the
questions. Without this there is a danger that you may overlook something
significant in a case, which may result in your response to be inadequate.
The checklist can be answered using ticks to signify a yes or no response;
practitioners are also encouraged to write additional information that may be relevant.
5.3 Outcome of the DASH (2009) Risk Assessment Checklist
Following completion of the Risk Checklist a victim may be assessed as being at
‘Standard’, ‘Medium’ or ‘High’ risk of serious harm. Those cases assessed as ‘High’
risk should be referred to a MARAC; the ‘High Risk’ assessment is determined in
the following ways:
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‘Visible High Risk’: The number of ‘ticks’ on the DASH Checklist. If you have
ticked 14 or more ‘yes’ boxes the case would normally meet the MARAC
referral criteria.
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Professional Judgement: If a professional has serious concerns about a
victim’s situation, they should refer the case to MARAC. There will be
occasions where the particular context of a case gives rise to serious
concerns even if the victim has been unable to disclose the information that
might highlight their risk more clearly. This could reflect extreme levels of
fear, cultural barriers to disclosure, immigration issues or language
barriers, particularly in cases of ‘Honour’-Based Violence. This
judgement would be based on the professional’s experience and/or the
victim’s perception of their risk even if they do not meet the criteria above.
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Potential Escalation: There have been 3 or more police callouts to the
victim as a result of domestic abuse in the past 12 months. This criterion can
be used to identify cases where there is not a positive identification of a
majority of risk factors on the list, but where abuse appears to be escalating
and where it is appropriate to assess the situation more fully by sharing
information at MARAC.
It is important to pay particular attention to a practitioner’s professional judgement in
all cases. The results from a checklist are not a definitive assessment of risk. They
should provide you with a structure to inform your judgement and act as prompts to
further questioning, analysis ad risk management whether via a MARAC or in
another way.
5.4 Revealing the results of the risk checklist to the victim
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Telling someone that they are at high risk of serious harm or homicide may be
frightening and overwhelming for them to hear. It is important that you state what
your concerns are by using the answers they gave you and your professional
judgement.
Equally, identifying that someone is not currently high risk needs to be managed
carefully to ensure that the person doesn’t feel that their situation is being minimised
and that they don’t feel embarrassed asking for help. Explain that these factors are
linked to homicide and serious harm and that if s/he experiences any of them in the
future, that they should get back in touch with your service or with the emergency
services on 999 in an immediate crisis. For further guidance on how to respond to
cases assessed as ‘standard’ or ‘medium’ risk see below section on responding to
the DASH.
5.5 Identifying risks to Children with the DASH Risk Assessment Checklist
The checklist will provide valuable information about the risks that children are living
with but it is not a full risk assessment for children. The presence of children
increases the wider risks of domestic abuse and step children are particularly at risk.
If risk towards children is highlighted you should consider what referral you need to
make to obtain a full assessment of the children’s situation.
Practitioners are advised to refer to the South Gloucestershire Safeguarding
Children’s Board Threshold Guidance document (see Appendix 1) to inform the type
of action to be taken (it may be that a referral to another agency is not required but
that the identifying agency is able to take action). A referral to another agency may
be indicated to ensure that the children’s welfare is fully assessed.
Note: Ideally it is recommended that the DASH risk assessment checklist should be
completed with the victim in person. However, it is also possible to complete the risk
assessment after a meeting with the victim, using your notes to complete it.
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6. Responding to the DASH Risk Assessment
The risk assessment will provide you with 3 possible outcomes of risk:
STANDARD
No significant current indicators of risk of SERIOUS HARM.
MEDIUM
There are identifiable indicators of risk of SERIOUS HARM. Offender likely to cause
SERIOUS HARM if change in circumstances i.e. failure to take medication,
relationship breakdown, substance misuse, if bailed, after court appearance etc).
HIGH
There are identifiable indicators of risk of SERIOUS HARM. The potential event could
happen at any time and the impact would be serious.
The result of the risk assessment will provide you with possible actions to undertake
in order to respond to the level of risk identified.
6.1 Responding to Standard/Medium risk cases
Risk Assessment Outcome
Standard Risk
Current evidence does not indicate likelihood of
causing serious harm.
Action to Take
Provide the victim with contact details for specialist
support agencies (see the South Gloucestershire
Directory of Domestic Abuse Services).
Ask the victim if they consent to a referral to Victim
Support, if yes; make the referral (see the South
Gloucestershire Directory of Domestic Abuse
Services).
Consider the needs of any Children in the
household – do you need to complete a CAF or
refer to Children’s Social Care? (Appendix 1)
Are there any vulnerable adults involved? Do you
need to make a Safeguarding referral (Appendix 1)
Consider other agencies, which may be a source
of support e.g. health professional or substance
misuse services and advise victim on how to make
contact
If appropriate ensure the victim knows how to
contact you
Advise about Safety Planning (See section 7)
Monitor the case
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Risk Assessment Outcome
Medium Risk
There are identifiable indicators of risk of
serious harm. The offender has the potential
to cause serious harm but is unlikely to do
so unless there is a change in
circumstances, for example, failure to take
medication, loss of accommodation,
relationship breakdown, drug or alcohol
misuse.
Action to Take
AS ABOVE (in line with standard risk
actions) plus:
Notify the Police Domestic Abuse
Investigations Team (DAIT) who will consider
a ‘Treat as Urgent’ (TAU) marker to be
applied to the address or phone number: Call
the police on 101 and ask for the South
Gloucestershire DAIT
If you have the resources within your agency,
consider target hardening the victim’s
property.
6.2 Responding to high risk cases
Risk Assessment Outcome
High Risk
There are identifiable indicators of risk of serious
harm. The potential event could happen at any time
and the impact would be serious.
Risk of serious harm (Home Office 2002 and OASys
2006):
‘A risk which is life threatening and/or traumatic, and
from which recovery, whether physical or
psychological, can be expected to be difficult or
impossible’.
Action to Take
AS ABOVE (in line with standard and
medium), plus:
Follow the MARAC Operating Protocol
and refer to a MARAC panel for
consideration.
Consider if a referral to the Police Bobby
Van to target harden the property is
appropriate, if so, contact the Police DAIT
team.
Seek consent to refer to an Independent
Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA), if yes,
contact them at Survive: 0117 9612999 to
make a referral
Take any actions available to your agency
to protect high risk victims.
It is important to remember that risk identification and assessment is not a
predictive process and there is no existing accurate procedure to calculate or
foresee which cases will result in homicide or further assault and harm. Rather
identification and risk assessment is based on structured professional
judgement and is therefore not fool proof.
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7. Guidance on Safety Planning
When working with people who are experiencing domestic abuse it is important to
provide options for them and support them to make their own decisions (the
exception may arise when agencies, such as the police or social care, take a
statutory decision when exercising their power to protect children or under the Mental
Capacity Act).
Generally it is important that the victim is empowered to make their own decision on
whether leaving the abusive relationship is an option for them (many people
experiencing domestic abuse may not live with their perpetrator; if they do it may not
be appropriate that they leave the household or they may not be in a position to leave
the abusive household immediately, either due to emotional or practical reasons).
As a professional you need to be aware that separation is understood to be a
significant risk factor in domestic abuse so it needs to be managed carefully.
It is important to offer advice on how people can keep themselves safe within these
households and also what to consider if they do decide to leave. Below are some
suggested safety measures for consideration, this list is not exhaustive.
7.1 Safety Planning if the Victim choses to leave
If a victim has made the decision to leave the abusive relationship, or is considering
this option, it is important that you recognise that the victim may have been thinking
of this for some time, and that their decision will not be easy. They may wish to plan
how they will go about leaving, but not go through with this immediately. It is
therefore important that the victim is aware of the things they should consider during
the planning process.
THINGS TO CONSIDER IF THE VICTIM IS PLANNING TO LEAVE AN ABUSIVE
RELATIONSHIP
REMEMBER THE RISK WILL INCREASE
Plan to leave when the victims partner will not be around: consider when they are at
work, out shopping etc.
Money: ensure they have enough money put away in case they need a taxi, bus, train fare
quickly. Ensure they have your cheque, savings and giro books, credit cards, current and
unpaid bills.
Child Benefit / Other Benefit Books: these will have their National Insurance Number,
which they will need to make a claim for future benefits.
Passport: make sure thy take their children’s passports if they have them.
Other Legal, Financial Papers: for example, medical, marriage and birth certificates, rent
books, mortgage details.
Keys: have an extra set of house, car and office keys made and keep them somewhere safe
– can they leave these with a friend or relative?
Emergency Addresses and Contact Numbers: school, GP, solicitor, Domestic Violence
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Agencies (small purse-sized directory available), ensure that they are always with them.
Medicine and Baby Provisions: prescriptions, glasses, medications, nappies, baby milk,
food etc.
Clothes: take the essential items and extra clothes for the children
Children’s Toys: sometimes it is difficult to carry much but their children may be confused
and upset by what is happening and a special toy or comforter can help settle them
Personal Items: photographs, diary, jewellery, small items of sentimental value
They may need to leave some items with a friend or relative so they can escape quickly. In
an emergency it is always better to leave something or everything behind than put
themselves and their children’s safety at risk.
Once the victim has left the abusive relationship, they may not wish to inform anyone
why they have left. If however, they are still at risk, it may be advisable to encourage
them to confide in a friend or family member, employer, colleague and even their
children’s school.
If this victim is still living or staying within the same area, they may need to consider
the following options to increase their safety:
 Encourage them not to place themselves in a vulnerable position, or isolate
themselves
 Encourage them to avoid any places, such as shops, banks, cafes, that they
would have previously gone to during their relationship
 Encourage them to alter their routine as much as possible.
 Encourage them to try to change any regular appointments they may have
that the perpetrator may be aware of.
 Encourage the victim to take a safer route, or to alter their route and take a
different form of transport when approaching or leaving places they cannot
avoid.
 Encourage the victim to inform their children’s school, nursery or child-minder
what has happened, and let them know who will be collecting the children,
and that they are informed not to release the children into anyone else’s care.
7.2 Safety Planning if the Victim decides to stay in the abusive household
The victim may not be ready to leave the abusive relationship. It is important to
remember that this does not mean that they are not frightened, but they are simply
not ready to break free of the control.
As the victim will be returning to the abusive household, it is important to ensure that
safety measures are put in place to ensure the victim can keep themselves and their
children safe.
The below list provides some examples of what you may discuss with the victim to
ensure their safety. Your agency may also have other measures that can be put into
place to increase safety.
 Access to Emotional / Practical Support
Identify / confirm friends who are safe to confide in
Identify professional who can help / support e.g. GP
Identify others she/he can safely tell
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Set up emergency code word with relevant people
Provide information on emergency help lines/Support agencies
 Safety in the home (living with or without the perpetrator):
E.g. call 999 in an emergency
Is there a TAU Marker? If not, speak to the police to see if this is an option (call 101)
Would a referral to the Bobby Van be appropriate? Discuss with police on 101.
Identify dangerous areas of the house e.g. where there are weapons
Safe use of computers, covering your tracks
Emergency mobile phone (different to usual and fully charged)
Useful phone numbers stored fictitiously
Spare set of keys
Safe room / bolt hole
Injunctions
Liaison with Police / DAIT (Call 101)
Are there bail conditions? Are breaches happening? Are these being reported?
Are professionals aware of bail conditions?
 Crisis Plan / Emergency Accommodations Plan:
(Things to prioritise taking with you if you leave)
Safe place (friends / family)
Documents e.g. passport, birth certificates, drivers licence
Access to money
Supply of clothes / toiletries
Spare set of keys
Transport
Important (prescription) medication and glasses
Children’s favourite toy
 Children’s Safety:
Contact arrangements
Risk of ‘abduction’
Help for children’s wellbeing – other key support people
Inform key professionals e.g. social care, school, nursery, health visitor
 Keeping Safe at Work and in Public Places:
Informing employer / college
Changing routines (journeys / shops)
 Privacy and Changing Identity:
Options to change name
Options to change identity (police)
 Agreement for on-going contact with agency:
Safe contact arrangements
Code words
 Referral to other agencies: (specify)
(Consent to share information confirmed with signature)
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7.3 Safety Planning and supporting Children and Young People
If you are working with children and young people, you may need to adopt a different
approach. The following points are important to note:









Find safe and confidential ways of asking children what is really wrong if they
are concerned
Recognise violence at home as one of the common reasons for problems – in
children’s eyes
Give them a chance to talk & believe what they say
Know what help is available for them and the non-abusing parent
Ensuring the safety of the non-abusing parent is the most effective way to
protect the child
Validate the experience
Use appropriate language
Do not underestimate the value of listening
Be straight and clear
In asking a child about their home life it gives the child the chance to:





Obtain permission to talk about what has happened at home;
Ventilate their pent up feelings about the violence and its effect on their family
Receive assurance that it was not their fault
Rebuild their self esteem
Develop safety plans for the future
It is important that the child or young person recognises that a Safety Plan can be
useful in an emergency. Encourage them to write key information out and keep it
safe so you they can access it when they need to:





Their Name and age (and names and ages of brothers and sisters)
Their address
Their phone number
The name of someone they trust to talk to about their worries and their phone
number and address
Other numbers that are helpful in an emergency:
o Safe places to go if there are arguments at home
o Local police station details
o Call 999 for emergency
o Helpline numbers
o Childline/NSPCC/Runaway Helpline: 0808 8007070
o Free phone 24 Hour National Domestic Violence Helpline (run in
partnership between Women’s Aid and Refuge) - 0808 2000 247
o HomeChoice Duty Team: 01454 865496, Emergency Duty Team (Out
of hours only) 01454 615165.
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8. Key Contacts
The South Gloucestershire Partnership Against Domestic Abuse (South
Gloucestershire Council):
For information on the partnership including:
 The MARAC Operating Protocol
 MARAC referral forms and information
 South Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Directory of Services
 DASH Risk assessment
Contact:
Tel: 01454 868751
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.southglos.gov.uk
South Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Investigation Team (Police):
Contact:
Tel: 101 (request the DAIT)
Website: www.avonandsomerset.police.uk
Safeguarding:
Children and Young People: 01454 868008
Safeguarding adults: 01454 868007
Survive:
Specialist domestic abuse service for women and children in South Gloucestershire
Contact:
Tel:0117 961 2999
Website: www.survivedv.org.uk
Next Link
Specialist domestic abuse service for women and children in South Gloucestershire
and Bristol
Contact: 0117 925 0680
Website: www.nextlinkhousing.org.uk
Housing:
South Gloucestershire Council HomeChoice: 01454 865496
Emergency duty team (out of hours): 01454 615165
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://homechoice.southglos.gov.uk/
Shelterline: 0808 800 4444
Merlin Housing Society: 01454 821100
MALE:
National Men’s advice line: 0808 8010 327
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National 24 Hour Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247
Website: www.womensaid.org.uk
www.refuge.org.uk
Broken Rainbow (LGBT Specialist service): 0845 260 44 60
Website: www.broken-rainbow.org.uk
Victim Support: 0845 45 66 099
For further contact details of agencies, please see The South Gloucestershire
Directory of Domestic Abuse Services.
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9. Appendices
APPENDIX 1: South Gloucestershire Local Safeguarding Processes
If you have concerns about a child that may be being abused, you should:
If you have ANY concerns about possible abuse it MUST be reported to the
Department for Children and Young People.
If your concern is about immediate harm, always call the police on 999,
otherwise:
The first point of contact is through the Children and Young People
Information Service on 01454 86 8008 who will signpost the enquiry to the
relevant service.
If it is out of office hours then please call the Emergency Duty Team on 01454
615165 or the Public Protection Unit of the police through the police
switchboard number: 101
More information is available at: www.sgcyp.org or visit www.swcpp.org.uk
More detailed information can be found in the document: What to do if you are
worried a child is being abused, 2010 available to download at:
https://www.education.gov.uk/publications/standard/publicationDetail/Page1/DFES04320-2006
If you have concerns about an adult that may be being abused, you should:
If your concerns are about immediate harm, always call the Police on 999,
otherwise:
Call South Gloucestershire Council, Customer Service Desk - 01454 868007
To report abuse or a crime where there is no immediate risk call the police on
101
South Gloucestershire Safeguarding Adults Board Alerter Guide, 2011:
I:\SAFER & STRONGER\COMMUNITY SAFETY\Safeguarding
Adults\Safeguarding Adults Alerter Guide_2011.pdf
APPENDIX 2: DASH RISK ASSESSMENT
The DASH risk assessment checklist can be found at
http://www.dashriskchecklist.co.uk
Or you can request it along with the MARAC Operating Protocol from The
South Gloucestershire Partnership Against Domestic Abuse on 01454
868751/[email protected]
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