Welcome to Leeds Domestic Violence Service (LDVS). LDVS works with women, men and families in Leeds, offering emergency accommodation, support, advice and advocacy. LDVS supports anyone experiencing domestic violence and abuse and actively encourages people from LGBT+ communities to access our support.
About
Our mission is to protect people in Leeds from the damage that domestic violence can inflict on their lives. We believe that everyone has the right to live their lives free from fear and harm.
We will achieve this by providing women and men with choices from a range of community based services, including temporary supported housing, IDVA (independent domestic violence advocate) support, community outreach support, a telephone helpline, drop-ins and support groups.
Our 24hr helpline is open to everyone – whether you want some emotional support, to refer yourself, or someone else into the service – you can ring anytime to speak to a friendly trained advisor.
Our Services
We offer a variety of services to support anyone experiencing domestic violence in Leeds. Members of the public can call our 24 hour helpline any time – 0113 246 0401
How Agencies Can Refer
Since January 2018 due to the significant demand for their community based services, LDVS (Leeds Domestic Violence Service) has been unable to accept referrals directly from agencies, unless the case has been through the FDSH/MARAC process and an action for LDVS to contact has been given.
LDVS is now in a position to start accepting referrals from agencies again – initially until the end of June, at which time the situation will be reassessed.
Should any agency wishing to make a referral needs to complete a referral form and email this to ldvs.referrals@lwa.cjsm.net
If you are particularly concerned about any individual who you have assessed as High Risk then please refer the case to the Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC) as well.
Drop-In Service
We run regular, discreet drop-in services across the city. Our drop-in worker will offer confidential, emotional and practical support, including information about your rights and space to talk through your options. No appointment is necessary – you can just call in – and you don’t need to give your name.
For more information about where the drop-ins are held, please call the helpline or email us.
24hr Helpline
LDVS operates a 24 hour telephone support line. Call us at any time for emotional support and information on LDVS or other services. Calls can be anonymous.
Emergency Accommodation
LDVS offers safe and secure emergency accommodation if you are experiencing domestic abuse. We can accommodate people from Leeds or anywhere else within the UK. You will receive support from our experienced workers in dealing with the effects of domestic abuse, as well as help with practical issues such as benefits and finances, accessing other specialist agencies, and housing.
Community Domestic Violence Team
Our Community DV Practitioners will provide regular practical and emotional support on housing, benefits and budgeting, safety planning, health and social care, and community engagement. In addition we can accompany you to solicitor’s appointments and support you in attending the Family Courts. We can liaise with agencies on your behalf to ensure that you receive specialist support in areas such as drug and alcohol dependency, mental health, and children’s education and well being.
IDVA (Independent Domestic Violence Advocates) Team
Our IDVAs will support you if you need immediate crisis or safety advice and will focus on reducing your risk. We will provide legal advice and advocacy on a range of issues within family and criminal law. This can include advice on injunctions, children’s matters, divorce, liaising with the police, and we can support you at criminal court if you have to give evidence at a trial. Our IDVAs will offer short or long-term support depending on your needs.
Group Support
We run a number of support groups for women in different locations around the city. The groups offer a safe space for you to meet others who have been through or are going through similar experiences. Week by week we talk through issues that affect our safety and wellbeing and the safety and wellbeing of those around us. We know that women are the experts in their own situations and that with the right support women themselves will find the best way to move forward and get the best out of their lives and relationships. We offer signposting, advice and referrals for other support where it is needed.