Sacred Heart is part of the domestic violence and abuse (DVA) school notifications project, run jointly between schools, the local authority, and West Yorkshire Police. This project supports children who are resident in households where there are incidents of domestic violence and abuse.

We know that children can be significantly physically or emotionally harmed by being either present in the house at the time of the incident or directly witnessing an incident of domestic violence. The DVA notifications project provides confidential notification to schools and higher education establishments on any incidents of domestic violence and abuse which occur within a child’s household that might have an impact on a child whilst they are in school. The process will ensure that a member of staff is trained to allow them to use the information that has been shared, in confidence, and ensure that the school establishment is able to make provision for possible difficulties experienced by children, or their families, who have been involved in or witnessed a domestic violence or abuse incident.

We are keen to offer the best support possible to our pupils and we believe this is extremely beneficial for all those involved.

If you would like further support or information about domestic violence and abuse please go to www.leedsdomesticviolenceandabuse.co.uk.

Other resources

Behind Closed Doors is an organisation supporting everyone in Leeds affected by domestic abuse: https://behind-closed-doors.org.uk