Hospital-based support service helps Oxfordshire residents facing domestic abuse

A pioneering hospital-based service is helping Oxfordshire residents affected by domestic abuse get the support they need – when and where they need it most.

Delivered in partnership by Oxfordshire Domestic Abuse Services (ODAS), Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxfordshire County Council, and the Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board (BOB ICB), the initiative features an Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) based at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford.

The IDVA works closely with clinical teams across a range of departments – including Maternity and Emergency Departments – to identify, support, and safeguard patients who may be experiencing domestic abuse.

As part of OUH’s wider safeguarding team, the IDVA provides direct support to patients, helps them access vital services such as housing and legal advice, and delivers specialist training to NHS staff to help them recognise signs of abuse and refer patients for support.

Following a successful pilot, the IDVA role is now due to be in place until at least March 2026.  As well as supporting patients at the John Radcliffe Hospital, the IDVA can travel to other OUH sites to ensure individuals receive joined-up care, no matter where they are being treated.

Milica Redfearn, Director of Midwifery at OUH, said: “This is an incredibly important initiative for our patients.

“Sadly, pregnancy can be a time when many patients are at a heightened risk of domestic abuse. Having an IDVA based in the hospital allows for rapid referrals and immediate support, which is crucial when it comes to safeguarding those experiencing abuse.

“This partnership reflects OUH’s continued commitment to safeguarding and addressing health inequalities through collaboration with local services.”

Councillor Kate Gregory, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities, said: “This service will provide a lifeline for people who may be suffering in silence.

“By placing support directly in our hospitals, we’re making it easier for victims to get help early. After a successful first year, we are pleased to be able to continue funding the service and have formally included it in ODAS’ contract from April 2025.

“As we mark Domestic Abuse Awareness Month, it’s more important than ever to raise awareness and ensure people know help is available.”

Sarah Bellars, Chief Nursing Officer at BOB ICB, said: “We are delighted to continue to support the hospital-based IDVA service. This is a vital advancement in safeguarding patients against domestic abuse. By providing immediate, specialised support within the healthcare setting, this service plays a crucial role in breaking the cycle of abuse and promoting the wellbeing of both patients and their families.”

The service has been recognised as an example of best practice across the region, and was recently presented at the South East Public Health Conference earlier this year.

For more information and support about domestic abuse, visit Oxfordshire County Council's website.