Domestic Violence Services Definition
Purpose
Individuals who receive Domestic Violence Services gain a sense of empowerment, improve their well-being, and increase their ability to live safely and independently.Definition
Note:These standards apply to programs with or without a housing component (i.e. shelters and safe homes).
Agencies that provide only crisis hotline services will be reviewed under Crisis Response and Information Services (PA-CRI), not Domestic Violence Services (PA-DV).
Note:Individuals experiencing domestic violence may be referred to as “victims� or “survivors.� The term “survivors� is used in these standards to encourage service delivery that promotes the empowerment of service recipients.
Note:Please see PA-DV Reference List for the research that informed the development of these standards.
Note:For information about changes made in the 2020 Edition, please see the DV Crosswalk.
Domestic Violence Services (PA-DV) 1: Person-Centered Logic Model
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.
- All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance.
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
- The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented.
- Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.
- The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.
- Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.
- Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.
- Capacity is at a basic level.
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.
- The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence | On-Site Evidence | On-Site Activities |
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PA-DV 1.01
- needs the program will address;
- available human, financial, agency, and community resources (i.e. inputs);
- program activities intended to bring about desired results;
- program outputs (i.e. the size and scope of services delivered);
- desired outcomes (i.e. the changes you expect to see in service recipients); and
- expected long-term impact on the agency, community, and/or system.
Examples: Information that may be used to inform the development of the program logic model includes, but is not limited to:
- needs assessments and periodic reassessments;
- risk assessments conducted for specific interventions; and
- the best available evidence of service effectiveness.
PA-DV 1.02
- change in clinical status;
- change in functional status;
- health, welfare, and safety;
- permanency of life situation;
- quality of life;
- achievement of individual service goals; and
- other outcomes as appropriate to the program or service population.
Interpretation: Outcomes data should be disaggregated to identify patterns of disparity or inequity that can be masked by aggregate data reporting. See PA-PQI 5.02 for more information on disaggregating data to track and monitor identified outcomes.
PA-DV 1.03
- ensures personnel are trained on therapeutic interventions prior to coming in contact with the service population;
- monitors the use and effectiveness of therapeutic interventions;
- identifies potential risks associated with therapeutic interventions and takes appropriate steps to minimize risk, when necessary; and
- discontinues an intervention immediately if it produces adverse side effects or is deemed unacceptable according to prevailing professional standards.
Note: Therapeutic Interventions do not include restrictive behavior management techniques, which are addressed in Behavior Support and Management (PA-BSM). Please see the glossary definition for Therapeutic Interventions for additional guidance on this standard.
PA-DV 1.04
Agency policy prohibits:
- corporal punishment;
- the use of aversive stimuli;
- interventions that involve withholding nutrition or hydration, or that inflict physical or psychological pain;
- the use of demeaning, shaming, or degrading language or activities;
- forced physical exercise to eliminate behaviors;
- unwarranted use of invasive procedures or activities as a disciplinary action;
- punitive work assignments;
- punishment by peers; and
- group punishment or discipline for individual behavior.
Note: See PA-DV 7.02 for more information regarding corporal punishment and children.
Domestic Violence Services (PA-DV) 2: Personnel
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.
- All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance.
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
- The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented.
- Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.
- The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.
- Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.
- Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.
- Capacity is at a basic level.
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.
- The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence | On-Site Evidence | On-Site Activities |
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No On-Site Evidence
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PA-DV 2.01
PA-DV 2.02
PA-DV 2.03
- at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent and two years' experience in human services; or
- substantial experience in human services, including at least two years' experience in shelter services.
PA-DV 2.04
- empowering and communicating empathetically with survivors;
- assessing risks and safety;
- developing safety plans;
- recognizing and addressing barriers to escaping abuse or accessing services;
- recognizing the presence of medical or health problems;
- recognizing and responding to the co-occurrence of domestic violence, substance use conditions, and mental health conditions;
- managing stress; and
- setting appropriate boundaries with survivors.
PA-DV 2.05
- engaging and motivating group members;
- educating group members;
- understanding group dynamics;
- leading discussions; and
- facilitating group activities.
PA-DV 2.06
- child development;
- possible effects of witnessing domestic violence;
- collaborating with child protective services; and
- non-violent discipline methods.
PA-DV 2.07
PA-DV 2.08
- assigning a worker at intake or early in the contact; and
- avoiding the arbitrary or indiscriminate reassignment of direct service personnel.
PA-DV 2.09
- the qualifications, competencies, and experience of the worker, including the level of supervision needed;
- the work and time required to accomplish assigned tasks and job responsibilities; and
- service volume, accounting for assessed level of needs of survivors.
Domestic Violence Services (PA-DV) 3: Access to Service
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.
- All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance.
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
- The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented.
- Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.
- The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.
- Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.
- Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.
- Capacity is at a basic level.
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.
- The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence | On-Site Evidence | On-Site Activities |
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No Self-Study Evidence
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PA-DV 3.01
PA-DV 3.02
- directly (e.g., through a 24-hour hotline or cell phones); or
- through a community telephone network or emergency response center.
- employ trained individuals;
- return calls within a 15-minute timeframe; and
- have procedures that address how phone calls are returned without increasing risk to survivors.
PA-DV 3.03
Domestic Violence Services (PA-DV) 4: Intake, Assessment, and Safety Planning
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.
- All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance.
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
- The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented.
- Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.
- The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.
- Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.
- Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.
- Capacity is at a basic level.
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.
- The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence | On-Site Evidence | On-Site Activities |
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PA-DV 4.01
- how well their request matches the agency's services; and
- what services will be available and when.
PA-DV 4.02
- gather information necessary to identify critical service needs and/or determine when a more intensive service is necessary;
- give priority to urgent needs, emergency situations, and individuals at greatest risk;
- support timely initiation of services; and
- provide referral to appropriate resources when individuals cannot be served or cannot be served promptly.
PA-DV 4.03
- immediate needs, including medical and dental care, legal assistance, food, shelter, and clothing; and
- safety and risk factors for the survivor, the survivor’s children, and any other involved family members.
PA-DV 4.04
- reflects the survivor’s particular needs, goals, strengths, risks, and circumstances;
- identifies and builds upon available and realistic options and resources;
- prepares the survivor to promote safety in various places, circumstances, and situations, including preparing for immediate escape when necessary;
- responds to the needs of children, as appropriate; and
- is regularly re-evaluated to ensure that it continues to meet the survivor’s needs.
Interpretation: For military families, safety planning should also address concerns related to deployments, duty assignments, or permanent change of station orders.
PA-DV 4.05
- completed within established timeframes;
- updated as needed based on the needs of persons served; and
- focused on information pertinent for meeting service requests and objectives.
PA-DV 4.06
- identify strengths;
- include a description of the presenting problem, any history of violence, and any other related risks; and
- evaluate the impact of the problem on children, as applicable, and their need for assistance.
Interpretation: The Assessment Matrix - Private, Public, Canadian, Network determines which level of assessment is required for COA’s Service Sections. The assessment elements of the Matrix can be tailored according to the needs of specific individuals or service design.
PA-DV 4.07
- explore their motivation and intent for involving the perpetrator; and
- evaluate the risks involved.
Domestic Violence Services (PA-DV) 5: Service Planning and Monitoring
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.
- All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance.
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
- The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented.
- Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.
- The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.
- Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.
- Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.
- Capacity is at a basic level.
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.
- The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence | On-Site Evidence | On-Site Activities |
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No On-Site Evidence
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PA-DV 5.01
- agreed upon goals, desired outcomes, and timeframes for achieving them;
- services and supports to be provided, and by whom;
- possibilities for maintaining and strengthening family relationships and other informal social networks;
- procedures for expedited service planning when crisis or urgent need is identified; and
- the survivor’s signature.
PA-DV 5.02
- assume a service coordination role, as appropriate, when the need has been identified and no other agency has assumed that responsibility;
- ensure that they receive appropriate advocacy support;
- assist with access to the full array of services to which they are eligible;
- mediate barriers to services within the service delivery system; and
- prepare community providers to meet survivors’ needs.
PA-DV 5.03
- service plan implementation;
- progress toward achieving service goals and desired outcomes; and
- the continuing appropriateness of the agreed upon service goals.
PA-DV 5.04
- review progress toward achievement of agreed upon service goals; and
- sign revisions to service goals and plans.
Domestic Violence Services (PA-DV) 6: Advocacy and Support Services
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.
- All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance.
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
- The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented.
- Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.
- The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.
- Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.
- Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.
- Capacity is at a basic level.
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.
- The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence | On-Site Evidence | On-Site Activities |
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PA-DV 6.01
- recognize individual and family values and goals;
- accommodate variations in lifestyles;
- emphasize personal growth, development, and situational change; and
- aim to help survivors gain confidence in their personal abilities.
PA-DV 6.02
PA-DV 6.03
- information about available housing options;
- help finding a safe, stable living arrangement; and
- education on tenant rights and responsibilities.
PA-DV 6.04
- working with law enforcement;
- locating attorneys;
- obtaining protective orders;
- resolving issues related to divorce, custody, visitation, and child support; and
- understanding their legal rights.
PA-DV 6.05
- short-term counseling;
- long-term counseling; and
- support groups.
PA-DV 6.06
- obtaining needed educational services;
- developing habits, skills, and self-awareness essential to employability;
- writing resumes, completing job applications, and preparing for interviews; and
- finding and accessing local employment resources and placement options, including on the job training.
PA-DV 6.07
- activities of daily living;
- household management;
- budgeting and money management;
- credit and debt counseling;
- the use of community resources;
- information about public assistance; and
- interpersonal communication.
PA-DV 6.08
- designed to respond flexibly to the changing needs of group members; and
- scheduled with participants’ time commitments in mind.
PA-DV 6.09
- contribute by sharing their experiences and asking questions;
- listen to and learn from those who are similar to and different from themselves;
- develop positive relationships with others;
- assume responsibilities and develop leadership capacities; and
- participate in activities of interest.
PA-DV 6.10
- food and nutrition assistance;
- health services, including both emergency and routine medical care;
- mental health services;
- services for substance use conditions;
- financial assistance;
- transportation assistance;
- prenatal health care;
- pediatric health care, including well-baby visits and immunizations;
- child care; and
- family support and strengthening services.
Interpretation: Regarding element (c), expectant and recent mothers should be screened for depression, informed about postpartum depression, and connected to available support and treatment services.
PA-DV 6.11
Domestic Violence Services (PA-DV) 7: Promoting Child Well-Being
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.
- All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance.
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
- The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented.
- Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.
- The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.
- Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.
- Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.
- Capacity is at a basic level.
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.
- The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence | On-Site Evidence | On-Site Activities |
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PA-DV 7.01
- offers age-appropriate programming that meets children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical needs; or
- links children with appropriate services offered by other community providers.
PA-DV 7.02
To promote positive parenting practices, the agency:
- establishes a policy that prohibits corporal punishment of children by parents and safe home providers;
- ensures all parents and safe home providers are informed of this policy; and
- promotes and educates parents and safe home providers about alternatives to corporal punishment.
PA-DV 7.03
- inform survivors of their children’s educational rights;
- help survivors coordinate educational services with relevant school districts; and
- assist children and youth to stay current with the curricula.
PA-DV 7.04
- a written, signed permission slip from their parents or legal guardians;
- a medical records release; and/or
- a signed document from a qualified medical professional stating that the child or youth is physically capable of participating.
PA-DV 7.05
- provide needed education about the dynamics of domestic violence;
- ensure that family problems are addressed in a cohesive and comprehensive manner; and
- promote the best interests of both survivors and their children.
Domestic Violence Services (PA-DV) 8: Crisis Hotline
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A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.
- All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance.
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
- The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented.
- Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.
- The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.
- Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.
- Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.
- Capacity is at a basic level.
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.
- The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence | On-Site Evidence | On-Site Activities |
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PA-DV 8.01
- trained crisis workers 24 hours a day, seven days a week;
- a live back-up answering service, or equivalent mechanism, when all incoming lines are busy; and
- the capacity to dispatch rescue and other services without disconnecting calls.
PA-DV 8.02
- assess each individual’s specific situation;
- refer or connect individuals with appropriate resources; and
- provide intervention and stabilization, as necessary and appropriate.
PA-DV 8.03
- name, location, and telephone number;
- contact person;
- services offered;
- languages in which services are offered;
- fee structure; and
- eligibility requirements.
PA-DV 8.04
- consults with police and fire departments, hospital emergency rooms, mental and physical health crisis teams, and the telephone company; and
- establishes written procedures for working with emergency responders.
Domestic Violence Services (PA-DV) 9: Rights of Shelter and Safe Home Residents
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.
- All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance.
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
- The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented.
- Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.
- The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.
- Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.
- Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.
- Capacity is at a basic level.
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.
- The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence | On-Site Evidence | On-Site Activities |
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No On-Site Evidence
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PA-DV 9.01
- developed with survivors;
- distributed to survivors, or posted in visible locations; and
- designed to promote safety, comfort, healing, and empowerment.
PA-DV 9.02
- are provided at admission;
- are clear and simple, avoiding overly rigid and bureaucratic language and rules;
- define specific behaviors, conditions, or circumstances that may result in expulsion, and limit expulsion to extreme situations;
- include timely due process provisions;
- describe the conditions or process for re-admission; and
- require all reasonable efforts be made to provide an appropriate referral.
Domestic Violence Services (PA-DV) 10: Shelter and Safe Home Facilities
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.
- All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance.
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
- The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented.
- Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.
- The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.
- Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.
- Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.
- Capacity is at a basic level.
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.
- The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence | On-Site Evidence | On-Site Activities |
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PA-DV 10.01
- protecting the location of the shelter or safe home;
- procedures for managing threats to safety; and
- ensuring residents, personnel, and safe home providers are aware of potential risks and familiar with all aspects of the security system and procedures.
PA-DV 10.02
- single rooms, rooms for two to four residents, or accommodations for larger groups, if appropriate;
- adequately and attractively furnished rooms with a separate bed for each resident, including a clean, comfortable, covered mattress, pillow, sufficient linens, and blankets;
- a non-stacking crib for each infant and toddler that is 24 months or younger that meets safety guidelines, as applicable; and
- a safe place such as a locker to keep personal belongings and valuables.
PA-DV 10.03
- food;
- clothing;
- personal hygiene supplies; and
- safe, private bathroom and shower facilities.
PA-DV 10.04
- sufficient supplies and equipment to meet residents’ needs;
- rooms for the provision of on-site services, if applicable;
- accommodations for informal gatherings of residents, including during inclement weather;
- adequate facilities for housekeeping, laundry, maintenance, storage, and administrative support functions;
- at least one room suitably furnished for the use of on-duty personnel, if applicable; and
- private sleeping accommodations for personnel who sleep at the facility, if applicable.
PA-DV 10.05
PA-DV 10.06
PA-DV 10.07
- evaluating each safe home prior to use;
- providing safe home providers with orientation prior to housing survivors, and ongoing training and supervision on topics relevant to supporting survivors and their children or other family members, including the importance of protecting confidentiality; and
- monitoring safe homes on an ongoing basis.
Domestic Violence Services (PA-DV) 11: Case Closing and Aftercare
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.
- All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance.
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
- The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented.
- Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.
- The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.
- Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.
- Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.
- Capacity is at a basic level.
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.
- The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence | On-Site Evidence | On-Site Activities |
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PA-DV 11.01
- is a clearly defined process that includes assignment of staff responsibility;
- begins at intake; and
- involves the worker, the survivor, and others, as appropriate to the needs and wishes of the survivor.
PA-DV 11.02
PA-DV 11.03
PA-DV 11.04
- develop an aftercare plan, sufficiently in advance of case closing, that identifies short-and long-term needs and goals, facilitates the initiation or continuation of needed supports and services, and identifies sources of informal and social support; or
- conduct a formal case closing evaluation, including an assessment of unmet need, when the agency has an interagency agreement that does not include aftercare planning or follow-up.