LimeCulture was thrilled to host the 6th National ISVA Conference in Leamington Spa last Thursday (11 May 2023), bringing together ISVAs from across England and Wales to share knowledge, ideas and good practice. 120 delegates were in attendance for the National Conference and included ISVAs, Managers and Commissioners from more than 35 different ISVA services. The ‘Knowledge & Network’ event was intended to provide ISVAs with the space to network with their peers, forge new relationships and reconnect with colleagues at an event dedicated to the ISVA workforce.
The conference was split into 5 sessions; each with a different focus relating to the work of ISVAs. In Session 1 (Knowledge Exchange), we about the programme of work completed by LimeCulture’s Holli Waterson, National ISVA Service Coordinator, as part of a project funded by the Hydrant Programme. Delegates were also able to hear from a brilliant array of speakers from 4 different ISVA Services – New Pathways, IDAS, Survivors Network and Safe Link – who each showcased the work they are doing to meet the needs of different and diverse communities. It is clear that ISVA services can – and are – being adapted to reach different community groups and provide flexible and innovative support solutions.
At Session 2, we heard about the pioneering work being done by Avon and Somerset Constabulary, CPS and Safe Link, the local ISVA Service to create new ways of working together to improve the experiences of – and outcomes for – victims/survivors. The speakers, Detective Superintendent Lisa Simpson and CEO of Safe Link, Sarah O’Leary spoke openly and honestly about the challenges they were forced to overcome in order to build professional trust and respect that now allows them to work as equal partners.
At Session 3, delegates had the privilege to hear from Lawrence Jordan, Director of Services at Marie Collins Foundation about the fast-moving landscape of technology-assisted sexual abuse, and what this might mean for ISVA services now and going forward. This session also included input from LimeCulture’s Head of Safeguarding in Education, Maria Putz, who was able to share the learning from LimeCulture’s growing work with Schools and Colleges and how ISVA services can create and sustain strong partnerships with schools to better support children and young people.
Session 4 provided the opportunity for delegates to discuss and reflect on the changes they’ve seen in their services in recent years and share their insights and responses to emerging trends. This session focused on how ISVA services can maintain safe practice and high-quality support provision in a time of unprecedented demand.
To round off the day, we were delighted to be joined by the Rt. Hon Edward Argar, Minister of State for Victims and Sentencing to announce the winners of the LimeLight Awards for outstanding achievements and innovation from ISVAs and ISVA services. In his keynote address, the Minister re-emphasised his commitment to the ISVA workforce and recognised how central ISVAs are to supporting victims/survivors and enabling them, if they choose, to engage in the criminal justice system.
Stephanie Reardon, LimeCulture CEO, said
‘It is always an immense privilege to spend time with ISVAs and ISVA managers and to hear about the incredible work they are doing day in, day out to support their clients. LimeCulture has always been a strong advocate for the impact of ISVAs and we are thrilled to see that this is now being increasingly recognised both locally and nationally.
At a time when the national spotlight is, rightly, firmly on how well we, as a society, support victims and survivors of sexual violence and abuse, it is an important reminder of the depth of professionalism, expertise and commitment of ISVAs and the critical role they play in ensuring victims and survivors have the information and support they need. Thank you to all our speakers and delegates for making it such an exceptional day!”
— End —
Download the National ISVA Conference Programme
Explore the training available for ISVAs from LimeCulture