The gender desk model
A gender desk is a designated, trained, and supervised point within a council where survivors of gender-based violence can disclose, receive first-line psychosocial support, and be referred into health, legal, and protective services.
EpiC supported the strengthening of gender desks in all six councils during 2025, with structured training for desk officers, a standard operating procedure aligned to national guidance, and a quarterly case review rhythm.
The 2025 case load
Two hundred and twenty GBV cases were supported through the desks during the year. Ninety-one percent of supported cases had a documented safety plan agreed with the survivor. Forty-eight cases were referred into formal legal processes through paralegal partners and council legal aid.
Of the 220 cases, 138 (63 percent) accepted post-exposure prophylaxis or other clinical service in addition to psychosocial support.
What desks still need
Funding for paralegal partnerships remains the most fragile element of the model. The 2026 work plan includes a structured engagement with district legal aid bodies to formalise referral compacts that do not depend on project funding cycles.
Council gender desks turn ad-hoc GBV response into a documented, supervised, and improving system.