About domestic abuse

Domestic abuse is any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behaviour, violence, or abuse between anyone who has been ‘personally connected’. This includes current or ex partners, family members, regardless of gender or sexuality.

Tools for assessing domestic violence and abuse

The Domestic Violence Risk Identification Checklist (RIC or DASH) is a tool to help identify adult victims of domestic violence and abuse.

When it can be used

Here are some example scenarios.

  • A woman seems to be being stalked by her ex-partner. It appears he has been harassing her and there are domestic abuse concerns – does he pose a risk to her?
  • There is evidence of potential domestic abuse within a household, is it significant?

About The Domestic Violence Risk Identification Checklist

The DASH checklist provides a simple and consistent way for professionals to assess the risk of harm to a victim. The results of the assessment can be used to determine if the victim should be referred to a Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC) meeting, where their risk can be managed.

The DASH checklist can be used for both men and women, and for victims of all sexual orientations and backgrounds. It is important to note that domestic violence can occur in any relationship, including intimate relationships, same-sex relationships, and 'honour' based family relationships.

Read more about the DASH Risk Assessment and Guidance

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