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The West Midlands Male IDVA Service is a new service which will provide a specialist regional offer for men aged 16+ at high risk of domestic abuse, across all West Midlands local authority areas. The service is commissioned by the Office of the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner. The service is delivered by specialist … Continued
The West Midlands Male IDVA Service is a new service which will provide a specialist regional offer for men aged 16+ at high risk of domestic abuse, across all West Midlands local authority areas. The service is commissioned by the Office of the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner.
The service is delivered by specialist male abuse support service Ask Marc, a project of Black Country Women’s Aid. Established in 2021, Ask Marc supports men affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence.
An independent domestic violence adviser (IDVA) is a specialist role which supports victims of domestic abuse from the point of crisis, undertaking risk assessments, developing comprehensive safety plans, and addressing both immediate and longer‑term safety needs. Support includes: liaison with police, social care, health and safeguarding partners; guidance on civil and criminal justice options; support to attend court; support to access safe accommodation; referrals to and collaboration with mental health, substance use and other specialist services.
The service will be fully embedded in regional MARAC processes. Referrals for high‑risk male victims will be received directly from MARACs across all West Midlands areas, and the IDVA team will hold responsibility for managing the MARAC caseload for male victims, ensuring actions are implemented, risks are monitored and safety planning is continuously reviewed. IDVAs will attend MARAC meetings where male victims are discussed, contribute to multi‑agency risk assessment and planning, and share information in line with MARAC protocols.
The service recognises the specific experiences and risks faced by male victims, including coercive control, counter‑allegations, hidden harmful practices such as forced marriage and so‑called honour‑based abuse, and the intersection between domestic abuse, cultural background, sexuality and complex needs. Practitioners use tools such as the Respect Toolkit to ensure accurate identification of primary victims and safe practice.
The service will be fully embedded in multi‑agency safeguarding structures and will maintain strong links with partner agencies to ensure joined‑up, effective intervention.
To refer high-risk male victims for IDVA support, email: highriskreferralsaskmarc@sandwellwa.cjsm.net
For general enquires: highriskreferral@askmarc.org.uk
23rd Feb 26 | 