Achieving DAHA Gold Standard for domestic abuse support
...Recognising the strength of our work to support customers affected by domestic abuse
We know that domestic abuse can affect anyone, and that home should be a place of safety. As a housing provider, we have an important role in recognising the signs of abuse, responding sensitively and helping customers access support.
Achieving Gold Standard means our policies, processes, services and day-to-day practices have been assessed against nationally recognised standards for safe, effective and survivor-led support.
DAHA said: 'Congratulations to everyone at Peaks & Plains Housing Trust for achieving Gold DAHA Accreditation! The assessment panel were so impressed with the commitment from every individual in the organisation, and the thought and care that goes into into to making sure that every survivor gets the right response'.
What did the DAHA assessment involve?
The assessment included a detailed review of documents, case reviews, focus groups with colleagues from across the Trust and feedback from external partners.
The assessor highlighted the quality and consistency of our case notes, our approach to partnership working, and the positive culture across the organisation, where colleagues feel able to ask questions, challenge safely and work together to support customers.
We were also pleased to receive strong feedback from external partners, who spoke positively about how we work with them to support customers affected by domestic abuse.
The accreditation recognised the value of having a dedicated Domestic Abuse and Safeguarding Officer at the Trust, while acknowledging that colleagues across wider teams are confident in managing and responding to cases.
So, what next?
Achieving DAHA Gold Standard is an important milestone, but it is not the end of our work.
We will continue to review our approach against the DAHA standards, listen to customers, work with specialist partners and strengthen our services so that people experiencing domestic abuse receive safe, consistent and person-centred support.
If you are in immediate danger, call 999.
I am so proud of the whole Peaks & Plains Housing Trust team who have come together to achieve the Gold Accreditation on our first DAHA assessment...and their complete commitment to ensuring the whole Trust is able to support our tenants who are experiencing domestic abuse, whether as Domestic Abuse Champions or just knowing the right person to signpost to.
Jules Booker, Chief Financial Officer & Deputy Chief Executive
