Introduction
COMPASS is your specialist domestic abuse helpline covering the whole of Essex. Together with Changing Pathways, The Next Chapter and Safe Steps we are part of the EVIE Partnership, keeping access to domestic abuse support services quick, safe and simple. Collectively the EVIE Partnership has over 100 years’ experience working with and supporting survivors of domestic abuse.
Who we help
Our free and confidential helpline is available for anyone over the age of 16 living in Essex who thinks they or someone they know might be experiencing domestic abuse. As trained professionals, we treat every phone call with care and respect. We believe the person we are talking to and ask the right questions to get them the help and support they need.
Challenge
Domestic abuse can affect anyone regardless of age, social background, gender, religion, sexual orientation or ethnicity. Domestic abuse can include physical, emotional and sexual abuse and it does not only occur between couples, it can also involve family members.
Domestic abuse of any kind can have a devastating impact on a survivor both mentally and physically. Finding the strength to pick up the phone can create its own host of anxieties. What if no one believes you? What if they think you would have already left if things were really that bad?
We often talk to survivors who are apprehensive over that first call. They are not sure what will happen or how the process works. They may be fearful about the types of questions they will be asked and worry that they can’t remember or don’t know the answer. They may also wonder if the call will be rushed, or would someone, such as a partner, find out they asked for help? It may also feel overwhelming trying to navigate what support is needed and where to start.
Solution
You don’t have to wait for an emergency to seek help. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, it’s important to tell someone. Through confidential, non-judgemental information and support, we assess each situation on an individual basis and tailor our response to provide the best care possible. If you are in distress during the first call, we use proven techniques to help calm the caller. We will work with you to assess your need and plan the best way to get you help.
Our highly trained team are accessible 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Our helpline is answered 8am – 8pm Monday to Friday and 8am – 1pm on weekends. Online referrals can be made anytime, day or night.
Result
Our goal is to attempt contact within 48 hours, however our last performance report recorded 82% being responded to within 6 hours of receipt. As online referrers, we will keep in touch with you; if we are not able to make contact after three attempts you will be informed, before we attempt two further times. The COMPASS team will make an assessment need, identifying risks and responding or referring appropriately before transferring all information to the correct specialist domestic abuse provider. We are with the survivor every step of their journey to recovery; they are not alone.
“Thank you for making aware of all my options and what support is there for me. You’ve also made me consider things I’ve never even thought of (silent solution and Hollie Guard Safety App).”
