Sunflower Services Hertfordshire

Services, which are detailed in full on the website and are accessible via trained volunteers of the Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline 08 088,088 088, include:

A drop-in service in Hatfield, which provides advice, information and support for anyone affected by domestic abuse in the Welwyn Hatfield area. Call the Domestic Abuse Helpline 08 088 088 088 for details on the location. Other drop-in services are being planned.

Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVAs) - there are seven across the county. IDVAs work with ‘high’ risk victims to ensure their safety and ability to access services. They provide general housing and legal advice, as well as support through any court proceedings. They can be contacted via email on the website (select the red ‘report incident’ button) or via telephone – numbers available via the DV Helpline.

Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC) – two are held regularly across the county. MARACs provide a means for key partner agencies, including the police, social services, health and housing, to come together to determine how best they can increase the safety, health and wellbeing of victims and their children, reduce any risk posed and improve individual agency accountability.

A Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), in Hemel as of October 2011 and serving the whole county. The centre provides professional, independent care and support for victims of sexual assault and rape. An Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) is available to support victims. The Centre is used by the Police as it contains a forensic medical suite but will also take self referrals. Telephone details on the website.

Specialist Domestic Violence Courts (SDVCs) – there are two across the county. They are specially tailored to meet the needs of victims and represent a partnership approach to domestic violence by the police, prosecutors, court staff, the probation service and specialist support services for victims. IDVAs provide advice and support. Cases are clustered on a particular day to fast-track them through the system. Magistrates and prosecutors receive special training. Evidence can be given by video link or behind screens. Victims are updated throughout the proceedings by a Victim Care Unit.

Perpetrator Programmes
There are currently a ‘free’ course available in Hertfordshire (funded by Herts Police):
The ERDAP (Early Response to Domestic Abuse Programme) ‘Healthier Relationships Course’ is a short 15 hour, early intervention programme, funded by Hertfordshire Constabulary and Hertfordshire Safeguarding Children’s Board. The course is open to men who wish to understand more about domestic abuse and who are willing to look at changing their own abusive behaviour in order to have a better relationship with their family. Please see the leaflet in this pack for additional information and how make referrals or email ERDAP@herts.pnn.police.uk directly. Although the courses to date have only been open to men, referrals are now being taken for female perpetrators and men aged between 16-18.