We are pleased to announce the extension of three of our specialist domestic abuse services, delivered by our domestic abuse support provider, Glow, across Derbyshire and Derby, ensuring continued support for individuals and families affected by abuse.
Our specialist Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) service has been extended for a further two years and our specialist stalking advocacy service and behaviour change perpetrator service, the 180 Project, have been extended for six months.
Our Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) service operates across Derbyshire County and Derby City, providing specialist support to high-risk victims and survivors of domestic abuse. IDVAs work to increase safety, reduce risk, and help individuals navigate complex systems including housing, health, and the criminal justice process.
The 12-month extension includes our Culturally Diverse (BAME) IDVA, who provides specialist, culturally informed support to individuals from minority ethnic communities, including those affected by forced marriage and so-called honour-based abuse. It also includes our Health IDVA. This role works in close partnership with acute hospital settings, including Chesterfield Royal Hospital and Royal Derby Hospital, offering direct support to patients and strengthening professional responses to domestic abuse.
Our Stalking Advocacy service, delivered by our Stalking and Harassment Lead IDVA (Stalking Advocate), delivers specialist advocacy for victims of stalking and harassment, including safety planning and support through civil and criminal justice pathways.
These roles play a critical part in protecting those at highest risk and strengthening multi-agency responses across the county.
Meanwhile, our 180 Project works with individuals who recognise that their actions are harming loved ones and want to make meaningful change. Through tailored one-to-one support, practitioners help participants develop individual plans focused on building healthy, respectful relationships.
A core element of the 180 Project is the Integrated Safety Service (ISS), which operates alongside the behaviour change work. ISS Practitioners engage with current or former partners and children to ensure they have access to advocacy, safety planning, and practical and emotional support. This integrated approach prioritises the safety and wellbeing of those affected while creating opportunities for sustainable change. The extension will enable this vital intervention and safeguarding work to continue while longer-term arrangements are explored.
Honeycomb Group’s Executive Director of Support and Wellbeing, Kerry Birtles, explained more: “We’re thrilled that these vitally important services will continue across Derbyshire and Derby City. The extension of these services reflects the ongoing need for specialist domestic abuse provision, meaning we can reach even more local people. Together, the 180 Project and our IDVA roles ensure that both those experiencing abuse and those who wish to change harmful behaviour can access the right support at the right time.
“At Glow and the wider Honeycomb Group, we remain committed to working collaboratively with partners and stakeholders to deliver trauma-informed, culturally competent, and safety-focused services for our communities.”
Click here to learn more about Honeycomb Group’s domestic abuse support.
