The DASV Forum is an all female group of victims/survivors of domestic abuse and/or sexual violence. We have lived experience of familial or intimate partner abuse.
We meet twice a month to work with organisations, individuals or groups to improve and make changes to the way services interact, help and support victims.
We have worked on a number of training packages for the police and council etc, have helped to inform local and national policies and procedures, worked closely with Next Link to help them improve their services and spoken with the Domestic Abuse Commissioner and her office.
We have held a conference day to show the various organisations and individuals who work within the Domestic abuse sector or alongside it, what survivors of domestic abuse go through on a daily basis and what changes and improvements we would like to see implemented in the future. This was incredibly well received, and the overwhelming consensus was that we were seen as more than just a statistic and that everyone was touched by the emotional impact the day had on them.
We have also made two awareness videos, one for the public and one for professionals. We are incredibly proud of the amount of time, effort and emotion that went into making both of these videos that will hopefully have a long-lasting impact and effect on domestic abuse survivors and all those that work with them in every sector.
We are looking for people who would like to have their voice heard and be seen to make a positive impact in the future by sharing their stories in a safe and supportive environment to change attitudes, policies, procedures and lives.
If you would like to be a member of the DASV Forum, or are interested in finding out more information please email dasvforum@bristol.gov.uk
