We recently received a personal message from Dave Andrewartha, a Worcestershire commissioner, expressing his gratitude to the members of our Lived Experience Advisory Network (LEAN). His feedback highlights the invaluable role our members play in shaping domestic abuse services and strategy across the region.
“Your voices have shaped our understanding in ways that no report or dataset ever could. You have helped us see more clearly where change is needed, and you have guided us toward solutions that genuinely reflect the realities faced by those experiencing domestic abuse. Your contribution has already made a huge difference.”
– Dave Andrewartha, Advanced Public Health Practitioner
Thanks to LEAN’s feedback, several key developments are underway:
1. Family Court Working Group
LEAN members’ insights directly influenced the creation of a new Family Court Working Group, bringing together partners committed to improving the experiences of individuals and families interacting with the court system. Members’ contributions helped shape its purpose, priorities, and approach to creating a more compassionate and responsive process.
2. Pathfinder Pilot
LEAN feedback has played a crucial role in introducing the Pathfinder Pilot in Herefordshire and Worcestershire. This initiative focuses on:
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Early assessment of family needs
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Faster case resolution
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Improved court experiences for families
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Ensuring children’s voices are central to decisions
Where Pathfinder is already established, families are seeing positive outcomes — and the pilot here is set to follow the same path of success.
3. Community‑based domestic abuse service
Input from LEAN members also helped design a new community‑based domestic abuse service. By placing specialist workers directly within local communities, the service removes barriers, increases trust, and makes support more accessible, helping families receive help earlier and more easily.
Dave’s message is a strong reminder that the contributions of LEAN members are not just advisory; they are shaping real, tangible change that benefits families across Herefordshire and Worcestershire.
“Thank you for your courage and commitment. You are helping to build a system that listens more carefully, responds more effectively, and supports families with greater understanding and compassion. The difference you have made — and continue to make — is inspiring.”
We are so proud of our LEAN members and the impact of their voices. Their lived experiences are helping to transform services, making a real difference in the lives of families in our communities.
Find out more about our Lived Experience Advisory Network (LEAN) and how to get involved