West Kent has recently launched an ambitious review of its domestic abuse policy and procedures, committing to the Chartered Institute of Housing’s (CIH) Make a Stand pledge, and aiming to gain accreditation from the Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance (DAHA).
domestic abuse. The alliance recognises that housing issues can be the biggest barrier to someone leaving a domestic abuse situation, and that housing providers are in a unique position to identify and respond to domestic abuse situations. Their accreditation process measures housing providers against a set of standards. The CIH’s Make a Stand Pledge involves housing providers making four focused commitments to provide support for people experiencing domestic abuse.
A key part of the DAHA accreditation process is to involve residents from the very start, particularly those who have had experience of domestic abuse. An initial survey was sent to residents to gauge how much they knew about West Kent’s domestic abuse policy and if they knew how to report concerns. The survey had an excellent response rate, with many residents making additional comments and suggestions, and 40 volunteering to be part of a focus group to help develop services.
As well as involving residents, a business-wide steering group has been set up at West Kent to ensure the review process reaches every part of the organisation. Julie Terry, Tenancy Services Manager, is leading the project and explains why it’s so important,
“The safety of our residents has always been a high priority for West Kent. We’re reviewing our domestic abuse policy to make sure our response to victims of domestic abuse and management of perpetrators is compassionate, professional, current and effective. DAHA provides a benchmark for how housing providers should respond to domestic abuse and we want to meet, or even exceed that standard.”
As well as support and guidance form DAHA, West Kent will also be working with a local domestic abuse charity- DAVSS (Domestic Abuse Volunteer Support Services) – to get their expertise in this area. Representatives from DAVSS and DAHA will be attending the first resident focus group, offering not just professional guidance for West Kent, but support for anyone who is experiencing issues personally. Julie tells us more,
“We are aware that this is a very sensitive area, and that’s why we are working so closely with specialist organisations. Having the involvement of residents is crucial, but we need to make sure we give them a safe space to talk, and that we direct them quickly to support if its needed.”
Some changes have already been made as a result of the review, with the development of a new website area including a confidential reporting form. The accreditation process is very thorough and unlikely to be complete until the middle of next year, but Julie says
“It will be a lot of hard work, but getting the accreditation will reflect how committed we are to improving our services and doing everything we can to keep our communities safe”
If you want to report a domestic abuse concern to West Kent, visit our website
If you, or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse please contact
The National Domestic Abuse Helpline free, 24 hours a day 0808 2000 247
DAVSS (West Kent based support) Helpline 10.00am to 1.00pm weekdays 01892 570538
If you, or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 999