BSAVA joins domestic abuse support initiative
The pop-up window leaves no internet history trace, and has quick exit options.
The British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) is to provide an Online Safe Space for those who are experiencing domestic abuse, as well as information to help people find support.
It now hosts an Online Safe Space on its website, accessible at the bottom of its homepage.
The page opens as a pop-up window, opening a site where users can seek information and specialist support for those who are experiencing domestic abuse. It leaves no internet history trace, and has quick exit options.
The support network is the result of a partnership between BSAVA, The Links Group and Hestia.
Launched in 2020, Hestia is a charity which provides support to adults and children in times of crisis. Its Online Safe Spaces were designed as a portal for information and resources, as well as discreet pathways to specialist support.
Online Safe Spaces have been adopted by many businesses, and have been used over 1.5 million times.
BSAVA’s collaboration with The Links Group has also enabled it to offer CPD training across the UK, to support colleagues with recognising and acting on non-accidental injury and domestic abuse. The CPD is free for BSAVA members.
Alison Speakman, BSAVA senior vice president, said: “BSAVA are hugely supportive of the opportunity to partner with The Links Group and Hestia to provide an Online Safe Space for all those who are in need of rapid and confidential access to domestic abuse support services and resources.
“Whilst we are an association dedicated to supporting veterinary professionals in their care of animals, it is important to be able to support the welfare and wellbeing of our members who may be experiencing the devastating consequences of domestic abuse.”
Sue Harper, deputy director of domestic abuse and sexual violence prevention at Hestia, said: “We are delighted to work with BSAVA and The Links Group to host an Online Safe Space to provide a vital lifeline to victims of domestic abuse, and we hope more organisations will follow suit.”
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