File on 4 Investigates - Domestic Abuse: Beyond the Checklist

Download Domestic Abuse: Beyond the Checklist

Leila Nathoo investigates the risk assessment system for domestic abuse, and asks whether it is any longer fit for purpose.

The DASH form is the gateway for victims and survivors of domestic abuse - used by the police, charities and social workers to assess people who may be at risk of domestic abuse. It is deeply embedded in the whole system and plays a central role in deciding what further support victims receive. But Leila reveals troubling evidence that DASH too often incorrectly identifies those at the highest risk, meaning they do not get the support they need. And people across the system tell her that the form has not kept pace with the latest research about domestic abuse. Leila asks those who use the form, those who have studied its use, and those who developed it, what improvements need to be made, and why it has taken so long.

Producer: Daniel Kraemer.

Published on Tuesday, 26th August 2025.

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