DAVSS

Who we are

DAVSS supports anyone in West Kent, Sevenoaks, Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge & Malling boroughs, aged 16 and over experiencing domestic abuse at all levels of risk, our provision is uncapped, risk and needs led.  Our model of support empowers individuals providing bespoke support for their specific needs. We operate a Helpline, the phone is answered throughout daily operating hours, alongside this we offer the option of an out-of-hours messaging service, as well as our live chat and chat bot that we launched in Autumn 2024. We recognise that people need to be able to reach out for support or advice at any time that suits them, in a way that meets their needs.  We provide practical and emotional advice and support about attending court, obtaining civil and protective orders through our specialist support to court team. Where necessary we can offer pro bono legal assistance, via our corporate partners. This service is completely free to clients, although if we attend court in person, we do ask clients to consider making a donation if they are able.

Agencies, organisations, and other voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations can refer to us directly for support for their clients. Individuals can also self-refer.  We provide domestic abuse toolkits to ensure those who have experienced domestic abuse have the skills to start to rebuild their lives. We deliver group-based programmes for survivors of domestic abuse and their children aged between 8 and 18. When the adult’s programme has been completed, the adults support the children through a similar programme.  Our Peer Support Group for women runs monthly, reducing isolation.  In addition, we are also committed to raising awareness of domestic abuse, we do this by delivering assemblies in schools around healthy relationships, attending community events such as Pride as well as running campaigns throughout the year.   

DAVSS has relied on the support of volunteer caseworkers and helpline advisors over many years, which has allowed DAVSS to grow independently, we are not a commissioned service, but we do receive small grants from Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, and Tonbridge & Malling Borough Councils and the PCC to provide our service.  We rely heavily on funding from the local community and grant and trust funders. DAVSS now has a strong core of staff who deliver our service, supported by volunteers. Since 2011 DAVSS has supported over 21,000 individuals.