AN 'ALARMING' number of people have applied to a new service in Oxfordshire to help survivors of domestic abuse during 'frightening' court proceedings.

A 17-year-old teenager is the youngest victim of domestic abuse who sought the support of an independent domestic violence advisor (IDVA).

She is one of 23 survivors who have been referred to the pilot service introduced by the charity Reducing the Risk of Domestic Abuse last month.

The organisation revealed it has engaged the services of a dedicated court advisor with more than a decade of experience who will guide victims through the 'daunting' legal system.

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Speaking about her new role in Oxfordshire Nikkie, who asked not to disclose her surname, explained that she will be there for people in need of support at either the crown or magistrates courts in criminal, civil and family cases.

While she is not legally trained, she has a wealth of experience and can offer tailored one-to-one support including being in court with them, arranging safe entry to the buildings and separate waiting rooms.

The charity announced the new service in September after months of a dramatic drop in reports of domestic abuse in the county during lockdown.

Nikkie revealed that an 'alarming' number of people – 22 women and one man – have been referred to the service a month after its launch.

The youngest is a 17-year-old woman, who needed support while applying for a non-molestation order, and the oldest was a 60-year-old woman.

Speaking about her day-to-day work Nikkie commented: "Just last week I supported a woman, who was absolutely terrified, go to court and then escorted her to her home.

"She was a bag of nerves."

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In the 12 years since Reducing the Risk was established, advisors have supported many victims through the courts.

The charity provides independent, free and confidential support for victims of domestic abuse and training for professionals across the country

One victim, who was referred to the service, shared details about the experience: "The IDVA service was absolutely fundamental in ensuring my journey from the initial police statement through to the court hearing was complete.

"Without the reassuring and unquestioning support of my advisor I am certain that I would not have been able to reach the point of giving my evidence in court.

"With their compassion and experience they expertly guided me through uncertain and worrying times in an entirely non-judgemental and trusting way that only the IDVAs do."

Chair of Reducing the Risk Romy Briant explained that the court IDVA pilot was not launched because of the pandemic.

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She commented: "There has been a long standing need.

"But coronavirus has given it an additional urgency as victims have been waiting longer for hearings with all the associated trauma this brings."

The free and confidential service supports people going through the criminal justice system or applying for civil orders such as non-molestation or occupation orders to protect themselves and their families, and who may want help at court in relation to family court proceedings such as child contact.

Domestic abuse victims can either refer themselves by filling out a two-minute online forms or be referred by a social or healthcare worker, or even a police officer.

More information about its service and a referral form can be found at reducingtherisk.org.uk