The ASSIST service, based within Glasgow City Council, currently operates in several local authority areas in the west of Scotland and have now secured Scottish Government funding to help victims in this region.
Since 2004, ASSIST has offered information, support and advice to victims and witnesses following a report to the police of domestic abuse.
Specialist workers build trusting relationships to help assess risk, safety plan and navigate an often confusing and complex court system.
They also offer tailored support to children who are cited as witnesses, making sure families can safely come through a difficult and stressful experience with as much information and reassurance as possible.
The service welcomes referrals from any source and works with men, women and children.
Advocates also work closely with other professionals in the community to make sure victims have all the support they need to safely move on with their lives.
The new team, based in Dumfries, will consist of five workers who will receive intensive training before taking referrals.
The posts will include advocacy workers, a children’s worker and admin support.
Hamish McGhie, Dumfries & Galloway’s Independent Chair PPC, said: “I am delighted that ASSIST is going to extend their area of work to Dumfries and Galloway. Advocacy provided by ASSIST to victims of domestic abuse is recognised as being of a very high standard and we welcome this opportunity to offer additional support to victims of domestic abuse within the justice system.
“ASSIST is in the process of recruiting staff to establish this service in Dumfries and Galloway with a view to providing the service early in 2023.”
