For many people experiencing domestic abuse, a visit to a hospital or GP surgery is a chance to speak to someone safe about what’s happening behind closed doors, often for the first time.
That’s why we have specialist advisers based directly in health settings across Kent and Medway. Working alongside safeguarding teams, our Primary Healthcare and Hospital Independent Domestic Violence Advisers (HIDVAs) work in:
- GP surgeries across Thanet
- QEQM hospital in Margate
- Medway Maritime hospital in Gillingham
Whether face to face or by phone, our team offer confidential, sensitive support and practical safety advice to patients as well as medical teams, working alongside NHS staff to make sure no one falls through the gap.
Letting medical teams we are on-site if they identify a patient or colleague who needs our support
Raising awareness of violence against women and girls as part of the 16 Days campaign
Visit from the High Sheriff of Kent to see how we work within QEQM hospital in Kent
Engaging patients and medical teams in conversations around violence against women and girls
Raising awareness of the red flags to look out for in abusive relationships for Valentine’s Day
Raising awareness of the increased risk of violence during the World Cup