Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service (SDASS) has been honoured with the prestigious Quality Mark from Women’s Aid as part of the National Quality Standards (NQS). This accolade recognises the outstanding support they provide to victims of domestic abuse in Swindon.
The Women’s Aid NQS is the only accreditation in England that acknowledges the work of specialist domestic abuse services. These standards demonstrate the significant impact organisations like SDASS have in offering dedicated, lifesaving services that prioritise the needs and experiences of survivors.
Achieving this ‘gold’ standard accreditation required SDASS to submit comprehensive evidence and undergo an in-depth assessment across seven key areas of their services. These areas included safety and respect, equality and rights, health, recovery and autonomy, power and prevention, leadership and accountability, services for children and young people, and accommodation services.
The award was presented to SDASS during the annual Women’s Aid conference this week. Director of Services Leann Atkinson and Trustee Angus Macpherson accepted the official certificate on behalf of the organisation.
Leann Atkinson remarked, “The NQS is a very rigorous application that takes an in-depth look at the services we provide, including our refuge, support services within the community, as well as other proactive programmes we deliver to help victims and survivors of domestic abuse. To receive the Quality Mark is great recognition that the work that everyone does at SDASS is unparalleled in quality and expertise.”
Angus Macpherson praised the calibre and dedication of everyone at SDASS, adding, “Every single member of the team at SDASS is wholeheartedly committed to supporting the women, men and children in Swindon who are experiencing domestic abuse. This award is testament to the hard work and dedication that they put in day in and day out to make a difference and save lives.
“There is no excuse for domestic abuse and it has no place in our society. Through working with victims, those who may be at risk and perpetrators of abuse, as well as having strong relationships with our local community, local businesses and education establishments, we’re pioneering initiatives to put an end to domestic abuse.”
If you need advice for yourself or a friend relating to domestic abuse, call the confidential 24/7 Helpline, which is always answered by an advisor, on 01793 610610.
