Domestic Abuse

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Home Office definition - any incident or pattern of controlling or coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those ages 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality.

Question 2

Primary investigation

Answer 2

Record information, ensure immediate safety, safety plan, and conduct risk assessment. Build rapport with victim - good response makes them more likely to engage. Remember cyclical nature of abuse - may take many attempts for victim to leave.

Question 3

DASH risk assessment

Answer 3

Domestic Abuse, Stalking and Harrassment Risk Identification, Assessment and Management model - multi-agency tool, can identify risk level, can make referral to Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference where key agencies share information and discuss cases to manage risk.

Question 4

Safety Plannig

Answer 4

Giving advice to equip victim with tools to; reduce the risk, stay in the relationship but be prepared for crisis, safety plan to leave, plan what happens after leaving, safety plan for children, have resources

Question 5

Legislation

Answer 5

s76 Serious Crime Act - offence of controlling or coercive behaviour. DVPN/DVPO - s24 Crime and Security Act 2010, allows short term protection and respite.

Question 6

Victims from different cultural backgrounds

Answer 6

May not speak much English or know how to get help, insecure immigration status may be used against them, may fear contact with authorities because of that. May be forced into marriage.

Question 7

Disabled or elderly victims

Answer 7

May be less likely to report and access support. Includes concern that they will not be believed.

Question 8

Safeguarding

Answer 8

The Children Act 1989 - provides police with s46 powers to be used in exceptional circumstances, children are to be protected from harm