assist
What is ASSIST?
Dundee ASSIST is a Specialist Domestic Abuse Advocacy and Support Service focussed on reducing risk and improving the safety of victims of domestic abuse. ASSIST was originally set up as part of Scotland's first Domestic Abuse Court pilot in the Govan area of Glasgow. Dundee Assist launched in April 2022 based on this model and now support clients whose partners, or ex-partners are going through the court process.
Advocacy: An independent voice for victims, including children and young people
Support: In the immediate aftermath of an incident and throughout the court process
Safety: Continuous risk assessment and safety planning
Information: About the court process, civil protection, housing, domestic abuse issues and ongoing support services
Services together: A coordinated, strategic, and operational community response
What is advocacy?
- We listen to your views and concerns and ensure your voice is heard through the criminal justice process
- We can help you to explore your options and rights
- We can offer information to help you make informed decisions
- We can help you contact relevant people/agencies or contact them on your behalf
- We can signpost/referral you to relevant agencies where appropriate for additional support
Court Advocacy
We keep clients up to date with what is going on with court proceedings and pass information on to the Procurator Fiscal to highlight how the client is feeling and what measures they'd like in place i.e., Non harassment orders, bail conditions etc.
Risk Assessment / Safety Planning
Our main aim is to help increase the safety of a client and their family. To assess risk, we will regularly risk assess and review safety with clients. We work on a multi-agency basis to ensure safety and wellbeing of clients.
MARAC (Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference)
During MARAC agencies share information and work together to find ways to keep you (and any children) safe from further domestic abuse. Dundee Assist will advocate on behalf of victims being heard at MARAC. We will always attempt to contact victims being discussed to gather their views, issues and desired actions and take it to the meeting, so their voice is heard.
Children & Young People
The CYP service offers support to children and young people (under 18) who are cited as witnesses in domestic abuse cases or as victims within their own relationships.
How to make a referral
Referrals will be accepted from any agency using the referral form below and victims of domestic abuse may also self-refer by contacting us directly.
Contact us:
info@dundeeassist.co.uk
01382 596100