Support for Survivors
DASSL IDVA service provides immediate, specialist support for High and Medium risk cases of domestic abuse.
DASSL IDVA service provides immediate, specialist support for High and Medium risk cases of domestic abuse. Anyone aged 16 and over living in Lancashire can self-refer to our service or be referred by an agency if they have experienced domestic abuse, we welcome contact from anyone who needs support. We understand that reaching out can be difficult and we will respond in a way that feels safe, respectful, and led by what you need.
Our service is also available to people following domestic abuse incidents that have been reported to the Police. Following an incident, we will reach out to offer emotional and practical support to understand your circumstances, assess risk and complete an assessment of need so we can work with you to identify the most appropriate support.
We focus on your safety, providing a rapid response, offering a clear pathway into longer-term support where needed, ensuring every survivor receives the help they need as quickly as possible. We offer support to everyone, inclusive of ethnic origins and faiths, genders, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, disability, or relationship circumstances.
Safenet deliver the service as the commissioned Lead Provider for Lancashire County Council along with the DASSL partners – FCWA, Key, The Liberty Centre, Harv and PAC. The teams will be based across numerous outreach offices across Lancashire, Police stations and Multi agency Safeguarding Hubs. The service is funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner.
What the Service Does
We deliver a consistent, county-wide response to survivors of domestic abuse across Lancashire. We work collaboratively with other support providers to reduce duplication, improve efficiency, and make sure victims receive the right support at the right time.
When We’re Available
- Monday to Friday, 9am – 6pm by calling 0300 3033 581
- Email – contact@DASSL.org.uk
- We aim to contact all high-risk survivors within 24 hours.
Our Purpose
- Keep survivors safe from domestic abuse and serious harm and support survivors into future safety.
- Identify risk and immediate needs for anyone experiencing domestic abuse.
- Create personalised safety plans to reduce harm and increase protection.
- Empower survivors to make informed decisions about ongoing support and help you access longer-term services.
We Will Support You With
Emotional and psychological support
space to talk about your experiences and explore what happens next so that we can plan for your safety.
Initial Risk Assessment & Safety Planning
We assess the level of risk, explore immediate needs, and create personalised safety plans to help protect victim/survivors from further harm.
Comprehensive Support at MARRAC
We advocate on behalf of survivors at Multi-Agency Risk Assessment and Response Conferences, working with specialist providers to ensure coordinated support.
Joint Visits with Lancashire Constabulary (Op Provide)
Delivered in Chorley, Lancaster and Preston this partnership approach helps reach victims quickly and safely.
How We Support you
- We are a front door to the wider domestic abuse support system, helping you access the most appropriate long-term services for your needs.
- Our approach is person-led and grounded in trauma-informed practice, ensuring victims feel heard, respected, and empowered.
- We work closely with the DASSL service to ensure smooth referral pathways and consistent information-sharing.
- Our Independent Domestic Violence Advocates (IDVAs) are fully qualified and experienced in delivering emotional and practical support.
Emergency Contact Options
Dial 999
In an emergency where you or someone else is in immediate danger, dial 999.
Press 55
If you can’t speak when calling 999, stay on the line and press 55 when prompted.
Text Register
If you’re unable to talk, text REGISTER to 999 and reply YES to set up emergency text messaging.
Call 101
For non-urgent situations, call 101 to contact the police without using emergency lines.