DASH Model

A DASH report in the UK refers to a Domestic Abuse, Stalking, and Honour-Based Violence Risk Identification, Assessment, and Management Model. It is a structured tool used by police, health professionals, and support workers to assess the risk of serious harm or fatality in cases of domestic abuse, stalking, and honour-based violence.

Key Features of a DASH Report:

Purpose:
- To identify high-risk victims of domestic abuse, stalking, and honour-based violence.
- To assess the level of risk posed to the victim and enable appropriate interventions.
- To facilitate referral to a Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC) for high-risk cases.
Structure:
- The DASH checklist contains a set of standardised questions that focus on factors linked to high-risk domestic abuse, such as:
  - History of violence or threats.
  - Use of weapons.
  - Coercive control.
  - Strangulation.
  - Escalation in frequency or severity of abuse.
  - Threats to kill.
  - Isolation of the victim.
  - Impact on children.
  - Victim’s own perception of their risk level.
- The answers help professionals determine the likelihood of further harm or fatality.
Who Uses It?:
- Police officers, healthcare professionals, domestic abuse workers, housing officers, and other frontline workers.
Risk Categorization:
- Standard Risk: No significant risk of harm identified.
- Medium Risk: Risk of harm is present but not imminent.
- High Risk: There is a clear and imminent danger of serious harm or fatality. These cases are escalated to a MARAC for coordinated intervention.
Outcome:
- High-risk cases may lead to:
  - Immediate safety planning for the victim.
  - Legal interventions (e.g., restraining orders).
  - Access to specialist domestic abuse services.
  - Continuous monitoring and support by agencies.

Why Is It Important?

The DASH model provides a consistent framework across agencies to ensure no warning signs are missed.
Research shows that certain risk factors (e.g., prior strangulation, threats to kill) significantly increase the risk of homicide in domestic abuse situations.
The DASH report helps focus resources on those at greatest risk, potentially saving lives.

If you or someone you know is at risk, contacting the police or a domestic abuse helpline can initiate the process of completing a DASH assessment and accessing support.