The commission was set up to examine:

• The links between domestic & sexual abuse and severe multiple disadvantage, looking particularly at mental health and substance use issues.
• The experiences of women facing these issues, including their views of what kinds of services would best meet their needs, supporting them to rebuild their lives.
• Current provision to support women affected by these issues.
• Evidence and ideas for how best to support women with experience of domestic & sexual abuse and multiple disadvantage.

As part of the work of the commission, AVA and Agenda put out a national call to recruit up to 15 women (aged 18 and above) to be volunteer peer researchers. Over 70 women applied, presenting the need for a project where women’s voices are heard. 13 women with lived experiences of these issues were trained as peer researchers. These inspiring women conducted interviews with other women in their communities to ensure that the voices of those with lived experience shape the commission recommendations.