Survivor Voice Forum
What is the Survivor Voice Forum (SVF)?
The Survivor Voice Forum (SVF) is a group of individuals with lived experience of domestic abuse. It is being established to provide valuable feedback to the Domestic Abuse Partnership Board (DAPB) on matters relating to domestic abuse.
As a member of the SVF, you will join meetings - either online or face-to-face - with others who have been subjected to domestic abuse.
Together, the group will share insights and feedback to help shape local responses and services for survivors.
A successful domestic abuse response must meet the needs of the people it serves. The SVF is being created to ensure that local services and the wider domestic abuse response are effective, inclusive, and accessible to everyone.
We also recognise that some individuals do not access services, and we want to learn why.
By listening to those with lived experience, who are experts in their own situations, we can create better, more responsive systems to help everyone in need.
We welcome anyone over the age of 18 who lives on the Isle of Wight and has been subjected to domestic abuse. It doesn’t matter if you’ve used local services before or not—we want to hear from a diverse range of voices.
We are particularly keen to hear from individuals who are sometimes overlooked, including:
- members of the LGBTQ+ community
- older adults
- disabled individuals
- racially minoritised people - those who are not white
- parents, carers and guardians
We will never ask you to share detailed accounts of your experience unless you feel comfortable. The group is committed to maintaining confidentiality and working in a way that prioritises the well-being of its members.
We value diverse perspectives, including those of individuals who have not accessed local services. However, members of the SVF are not expected to represent any specific group or organisation. You will simply share your own personal opinions and experiences as an individual.
The SVF’s activities will evolve over time.
Examples of potential activities include
- advising the Domestic Abuse Partnership Board on the Domestic Abuse Strategy and action plan
- providing input on documents related to the future contracting of services
- contributing to needs assessments relating to domestic abuse
- ensuring adherence to the principles of the Charter for Engaging Survivors
- offering survivor-centred advice on specific issues, such as communications led by the Isle of Wight Council
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is a priority.
All group members agree to keep sensitive information private. Discussions will take place in a safe and supportive environment, with specialist support services available to provide extra help if needed.
Payment and Support
Members of the SVF will be remunerated for their time in accordance with the Survivor Voice Forum payment policy.
Your voice matters - Survivor Voice Forum
Have you been subjected to domestic abuse? We value your insights; they are vital in shaping better services.
We’re setting up the Survivor Voice Forum to ensure those affected by domestic abuse have their voices heard. At this time, the forum is open to women only, but we are exploring opportunities for men and children in the future.
Participants will share feedback in online or face-to-face meetings and help influence services on the Isle of Wight. Participation is voluntary, with members paid for their time.
Your voice matters, and your contributions will be valued and treated with care and confidentiality.
To apply to join the SVF or for more details email survivorvoiceforum@iow.gov.uk