Embrace KIDVA

(Children’s Independent Domestic Violence Advisor)

KIDVA is a service providing specialist, child-centred support to children and young people aged 5-18 affected by domestic abuse. This includes young people whose parent or caregiver is experiencing abuse, as well as those who may be experiencing abuse within their own relationships.

KIDVA offers confidential, non-judgemental emotional and practical support, helping young people understand the impact of domestic abuse.

KIDVA provides guidance on safety strategies, education around healthy relationships, and support young people to develop positive coping skills to improve their wellbeing.

KIDVA works closely with partner agencies, including social services, schools, police, and Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVAs). We will only communicate with other organisations where this is necessary as part of multi-agency working to ensure children and young people receive the right support and safeguarding.

KIDVA can ensure children and young people receive coordinated support that prioritises their safety, wellbeing, and voice.

Engagement with the KIDVA service is voluntary, free of charge, and confidential for the young person. Referrals are only accepted from professionals.

REFER A CHILD

  • "KIDVA has offered consistent, sensitive support to my child, helping her feel genuinely heard and valued. Through regular check‑ins and a calm, compassionate approach, KIDVA has built a strong foundation of trust, which has been essential in enabling my child to open up about her worries and experiences. KIDVA has taken time to understand her needs, supporting her at her pace and ensuring she feels safe and respected. She has repeatedly expressed that KIDVA’s involvement has helped her feel more confident, supported, and less alone during a challenging period."

  • "I just wanted to take a moment to sincerely thank you for all the care, patience and kindness you have shown my son during the sessions you had together. It has meant a lot to us during a very difficult period. My son spoke very positively about the time he spent with you and I could see that he felt comfortable and safe during the sessions. As a mother, it meant a great deal to know he had someone he could talk to and who supported him with such understanding."

  • "This was the first 1-1 support that we accessed. I am very happy and grateful. Thank you for all of your help. You were all very helpful. Thank you to all of Embrace. My daughter is now able to express her feelings, is more confident and not scared anymore. She has a more positive view of life. My daughter cried last night as her sessions have ended. KIDVA taught her ways to stay safe and she shared these."