Important Update March 2026:

Transition of ISVA Services

Following a recommissioning process by the Kent Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, Family Matters' ISVA Services will conclude on 31 March 2026.

From 1 April 2026, these services will be delivered by Kent Sexual Assault and Abuse Service (KSAAS), formerly East Kent Rape Crisis Centre, covering Kent and Medway for all ages.

If you are currently supported by Family Matters, your worker will be in touch to keep you informed throughout this transition. Please continue to contact your ISVA directly in the meantime.

For information about support available from 1 April 2026, including how to access ISVA and therapeutic services in Kent and Medway, please visit www.ksaas.org.uk or contact KSAAS directly:

• ISVA: isva@ksaas.org.uk / 01227 826900
• Counselling: 01227 451753
• General enquiries: info@ksaas.org.uk

We are proud of the support we have provided to survivors across Kent and are committed to ensuring a smooth handover so that no one is left without access to specialist support.

Independent Sexual Violence Advisors

  Expert advisors who care

 At Family Matters, we have a team of dedicated Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs) that provide specialist support to individuals who have experienced sexual violence, whether recently or in the past. Their role is to guide and support survivors through the aftermath of their experiences, including navigating complex processes like the criminal justice system. We have 3 types of ISVAs:

ISVA  – Supporting adults only

 Child ISVA  – Supporting children and young people

Gangs ISVA   – Supporting people who have been sexually exploited by gangs

What We Offer -  We provide tailored support starting with a thorough needs assessment to create a personalised plan and connect you with specialised services such as counselling, mental health, financial assistance, and housing support. Our independent service prioritises your needs, offering guidance through the criminal justice system while ensuring access to holistic care that empowers you to move forward confidently.

Guiding you through the Criminal Justice Process -  If you choose to report to the police or have already done so, we’ll support you every step of the way. We can guide you through the reporting process, explain the investigation, and act as a liaison with the police to ensure your voice is heard. If your case goes to trial, we’ll help you prepare, organise pre-trial visits, and provide support during court proceedings, including attending with you to offer practical and emotional assistance.

If you haven’t reported yet but you are thinking about it. You are still welcome to access our services. We are here to provide guidance, not to tell you what to do. We can offer information on what you may expect, based on the choices you decide to make. The choice is yours, you are in control.

Choosing whether to report or engage with the police is a deeply personal decision, and we are here to empower you, providing guidance and support regardless of the path you choose. Whether you have already reported the crime or are simply considering your options, we offer a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your choices with confidence. You don’t have to face this alone.
 

For more information contact the us on 01474 536661 and select option 2 for the ISVA office. Alternatively email isva@familymattersuk.org.