For two decades, our work has been shaped by the voices of survivors, the dedication of our staff and volunteers, and strong partnerships across our communities. What began as a small project has grown into a specialist organisation providing life changing support to thousands of people every year.
Where it began
Freeva began in 2006, when several local services came together to create the Domestic Violence Integrated Response Project (DVIRP). The aim was to make support more accessible by bringing services together under one coordinated response.
The organisation started with a team of just seven staff and a newly established helpline that quickly became a vital lifeline. In its first year alone, the helpline received 1,187 calls from people seeking support, supported by a team of trained volunteers.
From the beginning, the focus was clear, listening to survivors, strengthening partnerships and improving responses to abuse.
Growing to meet the need
Over the years, Freeva has developed specialist services to respond to the complex realities of domestic abuse and sexual violence.
This has included:
- The Helpline and Engagement Service, providing confidential support and guidance
- Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVA) supporting survivors through the justice system
- Children and Young People’s ISVA (CHISVA) services
- Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVA) supporting high risk victims
- Counselling and therapeutic support for recovery and healing
Alongside survivor support, Freeva also delivers prevention and behaviour change programmes, including the Jenkins Project, which works with individuals who want to take responsibility for harmful behaviour and build safer relationships.
The Young Person’s Project also plays an important role in supporting young people and families to develop healthy relationships and address harmful behaviours early.
Adapting and evolving
Like many charities, Freeva has experienced both challenges and periods of significant growth over the past two decades. Each stage of that journey has shaped how we respond to the needs of survivors today.
During the COVID 19 pandemic, Freeva adapted quickly to ensure people could continue accessing support safely. Services were rapidly moved to phone and online delivery, allowing our helpline, advocacy services to remain accessible at a time when many people experiencing abuse were more isolated than ever. Despite the challenges, the team continued to provide consistent, confidential support, ensuring that no one reaching out for help was left without a response.
Following the pandemic, Freeva continued to expand its services across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, strengthening support pathways for people experiencing domestic abuse and sexual violence.
This has included the development of hospital based Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) roles, providing specialist support for victims attending the University Hospitals of Leicester. These roles allow survivors to access help at critical moments, ensuring they are connected to safety planning, advocacy and longer term support.
Freeva has also expanded specialist services for diverse communities, including tailored support for people from Black, Asian and minoritised communities, LGBTQ+ individuals and male victims. Recognising that experiences of abuse can be shaped by culture, identity and additional barriers to support, these services aim to ensure that help is accessible, inclusive and responsive.
Alongside frontline services, Freeva has continued to strengthen the organisation’s infrastructure. Investment in digital systems, safeguarding processes and data security, including achieving Cyber Essentials certification, has helped ensure services are safe, secure and resilient.
Freeva has also developed stronger community partnerships, working alongside local authorities, health services, police, specialist organisations and community groups to improve responses to domestic abuse and sexual violence across the region.
At the same time, investment in fundraising, communications and community engagement has helped raise awareness of the support available, ensuring more people know where to turn when they need help.
Together, these developments have strengthened Freeva’s ability to respond to the complex and evolving needs of survivors, ensuring that support remains accessible, effective and centred around the people we serve.
Looking ahead
Today, Freeva supports thousands of people every year through specialist, trauma informed services.
Behind every call, referral and conversation is a person finding safety, support and the opportunity to rebuild their life.
As Freeva marks 20 years of change, we reflect on the progress made while recognising there is still more to do.
We remain committed to listening, learning and working alongside our communities to create safer futures for everyone affected by domestic and sexual abuse.
While we are proud of how far we have come, we know there is still more to do. Domestic abuse and sexual violence continue to affect individuals, families and communities, and access to specialist, trauma informed support remains essential.
As we mark 20 years of Freeva, we remain committed to listening to survivors, strengthening partnerships and continuing to develop services that respond to the realities people face.
The past 20 years have shown what is possible when communities come together to challenge abuse and support those affected by it.
Together, we will continue working towards safer relationships, stronger communities and a future free from violence and abuse.
