Two women sitting at a table, reviewing and taking notes on documents, in an office setting.
Two women sitting at a table, reviewing and taking notes on documents, in an office setting.

ISVA advocacy support.

How we support you.

Support to help you understand your options and feel supported.

Our Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs) provide specialist, confidential support to people who have experienced sexual violence or abuse.

They are here to help you understand your options, feel informed, and be supported — whether or not you choose to report to the police.

"I've found my voice."

-Anonymous, shared with consent.

Our approach.

ISVAs are:

  • understanding and respectful

  • non-judgemental, whatever you decide

  • focused on your needs and choices

Their role is to support and empower you, not to tell you what to do.

What is an ISVA?

An ISVA (Independent Sexual Violence Advisor) is a trained specialist who offers emotional and practical support.

They are:

  • independent and on your side

  • non-judgemental and confidential

  • experienced in supporting people affected by sexual violence

ISVAs support people aged 11 and over, as well as parents and carers.

Two women having a conversation in a living room. One woman with blond hair looks at a piece of paper, while the other woman with short dark hair holds a notebook. The room has a gray sofa, a white cabinet with glass doors, framed pictures, a clock, and a tall green plant.

How an ISVA can support you.

Your ISVA can support you in a way that feels right for you.

This may include:

  • explaining your options, including reporting to the police

  • helping you understand the criminal justice process

  • supporting you to make informed decisions

  • attending meetings or appointments with you

  • helping you access other services

  • offering emotional support throughout

You can access ISVA support whether the abuse was recent or happened a long time ago.

What to expect

Reporting (optional).

A bronze statue of Lady Justice holding scales in one hand, standing next to a judge's gavel on a wooden sound block, with an open book in the background.

  • You do not have to report to the police to access advice, information and initial support from an ISVA.

    If you are considering reporting, your ISVA can:

    • explain what the reporting process involves

    • help you understand what might happen next

    • accompany you to police interviews for support

    • support you before, during and after a police investigation

    If you choose not to report, we can still offer initial support, information and advice, and help you access other services that best meet your needs.

  • If your case progresses through the criminal justice system, your ISVA will support you throughout the process and help you feel more prepared.

    This may include:

    • attending court visits and meetings with the CPS

    • explaining what to expect at each stage of the criminal justice process

    • helping you understand your rights and options

    • supporting you to request special measures to help you feel safer and more comfortable when giving evidence

    Special measures are adjustments that can help you give your best evidence, such as giving evidence behind a screen or via video link, depending on your individual circumstances.

  • ISVAs can also:

    • support parents and carers

    • accompany you to Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) appointments, where appropriate

    • help you communicate with other services

    • ensure your views and needs are heard

    If English is not your first language, please let us know when you contact us so we can discuss your communication needs and any support that may be available.

  • If you choose to report, you have rights under the Victims’ Code.

    Your ISVA can help you understand these rights and ensure they are respected throughout the process.

Accessing ISVA support.

If you feel this support would help you, you can get in touch or make a referral.

Make a referral

“My experience with my ISVA gave me a much needed outlet to talk about my experiences freely and without judgement. She helped me to manage the impact of flashbacks and panic attacks and gave me strategies I still use day-to-day.”

What people say.