1. What is the role of the Independent Sexual Violence Advisor?
Claire Kerman

2. Help clients navigate the
criminal Justice process
Practical information and and emotional support

4. Died a few days after giving evidence following a lethal overdose.
“...traumatised after being accused of lying in court.”
“I can see why nobody comes forward. I can see how people crack under the pressure”
In quest into her death was told she “spiralled into despair” after giving evidence.

5. Shocked
Embarrassed/humiliated
Disempowered
Angry
Anxious
Who can I trust?
What happens next?
What about my health?
Am I going mad?
It’s my fault…

8. Risks/Vulnerabilities
Poor mental health
Substance misuse
Domestic Abuse
Physical Disability
Learning Difficulty/Disabilities
Dependents at risk?
Homelessness

9. Risk assessment
Identify risk
Manage it
Referrals

10. Safeguarding Team
Social care
Drug and Alcohol Teams GP
Victim Support
Tailored referral (Google)
Counselling
Police

11. What do our clients want?
Respect
Dignity
Support
Information
Compassion
Empathy
Professionalism

12. Managing expectations…

13. Support through court Outlining special measures
Attending Pre-Court Visit with
client at Court
Supporting through Court process
Ensuring emotional support is
available post-trial
Always have access to centre.

14. Baroness Stern
Independent Review into how rape complaints are handled in England and Wales.
Published 2010
Explore the ways in which the attrition rate can be reduced and how to fairly increase the conviction rate.

15. We recommend ISVAs be seen as:
An intrinsic part of the way rape complaints are dealt with.
As the Service that enables the rest to operate effectively.
A crucial part of the way the state fulfils its obligation to victims of violence.

16. Sarah 13th January 2012 assaulted
5th July 2013 Sarah referred herself to St Marys for support for support
13th July 2013 Pre court visit
27th July 2013 Adjourned
20th January 2014 Hung Jury
2nd June 2014…
Not Guilty

17. Questions. Claire Kerman ISVA St Marys SARC claire. kerman@cmft. nhs
Questions? Claire Kerman ISVA St Marys SARC Tel