New Domestic And Sexual Abuse Advocacy Service Launched

The Department of Justice has announced the appointment of ASSIST NI as the provider of a new advocacy service for victims of sexual and domestic abuse in Northern Ireland.

The service will provide support to two distinct groups: adults aged 18 and over, and children and young people aged 17 and under, who are engaging with the criminal justice system.

"I am acutely aware of the trauma and distress experienced by victims of domestic and sexual abuse and how their anguish can be compounded further if they don't receive adequate support," said Justice Minister Naomi Long. "I am determined they should be able to access help at the earliest opportunity and the services announced today will ensure victims of these despicable crimes are not alone during what can be an incredibly difficult process." The service will be available to victims of domestic abuse who are assessed by the PSNI as being at high risk of serious harm, as well as victims of serious sexual offences.

Police will refer adult high-risk victims of domestic abuse, including those who have been referred to a Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC), to ASSIST NI. The Rowan Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) will also refer adults who have self-referred to the SARC in respect of a sexual assault but are not yet engaging with the criminal justice system.

ASSIST NI will also support children who have been referred by social services, following attendance at the Rowan SARC, but are not yet engaging with the criminal justice system.

ASSIST NI is managed by a partnership consisting of Belfast and Lisburn Women's Aid, Foyle Women's Aid, and the Men's Advisory Project, organisations with extensive experience in supporting victims of domestic and sexual abuse.

The adult scheme is scheduled to launch on 1 April 2025, while the children's advocacy service is set to commence on 1 July 2025.