ISVA Service

Our Independent Sexual Violence Advisors offer information, support and advocacy in relation to the Criminal Justice System.

Independent Sexual Violence Advisors are known as ISVAs.

ISVAs support you to make informed decisions at your own pace and will not tell you what to do.

This service is available in women-only and trans-inclusive spaces.

What can ISVAs support with?

ISVAs can support you to:

  • Understand the Criminal Justice System process
  • Explore reporting options
  • Understand your rights
  • Stay informed about your case
  • Navigate appointments and communication linked to your case

Your ISVA will work with you to develop a support plan based on your needs, priorities and any risks identified. This plan is individual to you and is reviewed as things change.

As part of this we can offer information and support to help you access other services including housing, financial support, health and wellbeing services, and other practical support.

Who can access the ISVA service?

You can access ISVA support if you have reported to the police and your case is ongoing.

If you are not currently involved in the Criminal Justice System, we can also offer up to three months ISVA support. This can be:

  • If you have not reported to the Police. An ISVA can help you to understand your options related to reporting to the police and decide what feels right for you.
  • If you have reported to the Police in the past and the case has ended. An ISVA can support you to understand or raise concerns about things that happened in the process or decisions that were made.

How often will I see my ISVA?

Appointments are usually offered monthly, but you can discuss this with your ISVA.

How will I see and talk to my ISVA?

Appointments are available in person in our main base in Newcastle and in a range of locations across Tyne & Wear and Northumberland. We can discuss this with you to make sure we find a place that meets your needs.

We also offer telephone and online appointments.

We can communicate with you by text and email; however, we are not able to provide support solely through text or email. We will need to speak with you directly to make sure it is safe and the best way to stay in contact with you.

We can also make changes to meet any communication needs you may have, including interpreters if needed.

What we cannot provide

We cannot provide legal advice or legal representation. If you need legal advice, we will support you to access appropriate legal services.

We are not a crisis service and cannot provide immediate or emergency support. If you are in immediate danger, please contact emergency services.

Emotional support

Our Helpline and Email Support Service offers listening support. The service is free and confidential. Whether you call or email, you are in control. More information about our Helpline and Email Support Service is available here.

How to access Our ISVA Service

You can refer yourself into the service, or someone can refer you with your permission. To make a referral you can contact us or use our Online Referral Form, see the links below for more information.

If you are unsure whether you are eligible or what support would be most appropriate, please contact us and we can talk it through with you.

You might also find it helpful to check out our Frequently Asked Questions page.

We are not a crisis service. If you are in crisis please contact the appropriate service, for example your GP or 999 if it’s an emergency.

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