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What is an ISVA?

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An Independent Sexual Violence Adviser (ISVA) is a person that is there to support you if you have experienced sexual abuse. Sometimes, they are called CHISVAs which is a Children’s Independent Sexual Violence Adviser. 

They can offer emotional support and practical support and will support you if you have reported what has happened to the police or if you want to report to the police. 

How they can support emotionally

  • Ask you how you’re feeling and give you time to talk 
  • Spend time with you to get to know you 
  • Help you to develop some coping strategies

How they can support practically

  • Help you sort out medical appointments and go with you
  • If you need support with housing or benefits 
  • Talk to other professionals for you and with you 
  • Give you information about claiming compensation 

How they can support with the police process

  • Help you make a report to the police if you haven’t already and you feel you’re ready to tell them what has happened
  • Let you know what will happen next and help you get ready for each stage
  • Be in the room with you when the police are asking you what happened 
  • Come with you to court and support you 

 

If you have experienced sexual abuse and would like to speak with someone about ISVA support, please contact us here

 

How can we help you?

Use the button below to visit our contact page.

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