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Label Element Value
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Document Type dei_DocumentType 485BPOS
Document Period End Date dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate Nov. 30, 2011
Registrant Name dei_EntityRegistrantName DELAWARE GROUP EQUITY FUNDS V
Central Index Key dei_EntityCentralIndexKey 0000809821
Amendment Flag dei_AmendmentFlag false
Document Creation Date dei_DocumentCreationDate Mar. 28, 2012
Document Effective Date dei_DocumentEffectiveDate Mar. 29, 2012
Prospectus Date rr_ProspectusDate Mar. 29, 2012
(Institutional) | (Delaware Dividend Income Fund)
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Objective [Heading] rr_ObjectiveHeading

What are the Fund's investment objectives?

Objective, Primary [Text Block] rr_ObjectivePrimaryTextBlock

Delaware Dividend Income Fund seeks to provide high current income and an investment that has the potential for capital appreciation.

Expense [Heading] rr_ExpenseHeading

What are the Fund's fees and expenses?

Expense Narrative [Text Block] rr_ExpenseNarrativeTextBlock

The following table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Fund.

Operating Expenses Caption [Text] rr_OperatingExpensesCaption

Annual fund operating expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)

Portfolio Turnover [Heading] rr_PortfolioTurnoverHeading

Portfolio turnover

Portfolio Turnover [Text Block] rr_PortfolioTurnoverTextBlock

The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was 110% of the average value of its portfolio.
Portfolio Turnover, Rate rr_PortfolioTurnoverRate 110.00%
Expense Example [Heading] rr_ExpenseExampleHeading

Example

Expense Example Narrative [Text Block] rr_ExpenseExampleNarrativeTextBlock

The example below is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund to the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The example shows the cumulative amount of Fund expenses on a hypothetical investment of $10,000 with an annual 5% return over the time shown. This example assumes that the Fund's total operating expenses remain unchanged in each of the periods shown. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
Strategy [Heading] rr_StrategyHeading

What are the Fund's principal investment strategies?

Strategy Narrative [Text Block] rr_StrategyNarrativeTextBlock

The Fund invests primarily in income generating securities (debt and equity), which may include equity securities of large, well-established companies, and debt securities, including high yield, high-risk corporate bonds, investment-grade fixed income securities, and U.S. government securities.

Under normal circumstances, at least 50% of the Fund's total assets will be invested in income generating equity securities. In making investments in income generating equity securities, the Fund may invest an unlimited portion of its total assets in convertible securities without regard to credit quality. While debt securities may comprise up to 50% of the Fund's total assets, no more than 45% of the Fund's total assets will be invested in high yield, high-risk debt securities. No more than 25% of the Fund's total assets will be invested in any one industry sector nor, as to 75% of the Fund's total assets, will more than 5% be invested in securities of any one issuer. The Fund may invest up to 30% of its total assets in foreign equity and debt securities. The Fund will not, however, invest more than 5% of its total assets in securities of issuers principally located or principally operating in markets of emerging countries.

Within the percentage guidelines noted above, the Manager will determine the proportion of the Fund's assets that will be allocated to income generating equity securities and equity equivalents and to debt securities, based on its analysis of economic and market conditions and its assessment of the income and potential for appreciation that can be achieved from investments in such asset classes. It is expected that the proportion of the Fund's total assets invested in income generating equity securities and equity equivalent securities will vary from 50% to 100% of the Fund's total assets. The proportion of the Fund's total assets in debt securities will correspondingly vary from 0% to 50% of the Fund's total assets.
Risk [Heading] rr_RiskHeading

What are the principal risks of investing in the Fund?

Risk Narrative [Text Block] rr_RiskNarrativeTextBlock

Investing in any mutual fund involves the risk that you may lose part or all of the money you invest. Over time, the value of your investment in the Fund will increase and decrease according to changes in the value of the securities in the Fund's portfolio. Principal risks include:

Investments not guaranteed by the Manager or its affiliates — Investments in the Fund are not and will not be deposits with or liabilities of Macquarie Bank Limited ABN 46 008 583 542 and its holding companies, including their subsidiaries or related companies (Macquarie Group), and are subject to investment risk, including possible delays in repayment and loss of income and capital invested. No Macquarie Group company guarantees or will guarantee the performance of the Fund, the repayment of capital from the Fund, or any particular rate of return.

Market risk — The risk that all or a majority of the securities in a certain market — such as the stock or bond market — will decline in value because of factors such as adverse political or economic conditions, future expectations, investor confidence, or heavy institutional selling.

Industry risk — The risk that the value of securities in a particular industry (such as financial services or manufacturing) will decline because of changing expectations for the performance of that industry.

Credit risk — The risk that a bond's issuer will be unable to make timely payments of interest and principal. Investing in so-called "junk" or "high yield" bonds entails greater risk of principal loss than the risk involved in investment grade bonds.

Interest rate risk — The risk that securities will decrease in value if interest rates rise. This risk is generally associated with bonds.

Bank loans and other indebtedness risk — The risk that the portfolio will not receive payment of principal, interest, and other amounts due in connection with these investments and will depend primarily on the financial condition of the borrower and the lending institution.

High yield (junk bond) risk — The risk that high yield securities, commonly known as "junk bonds," are subject to reduced creditworthiness of issuers; increased risk of default and a more limited and less liquid secondary market; and greater price volatility and risk of loss of income and principal than are higher rated securities.

Foreign risk — The risk that foreign securities (particularly in emerging markets) may be adversely affected by political instability; changes in currency exchange rates; inefficient markets and higher transaction costs; foreign economic conditions; or inadequate or different regulatory and accounting standards.

Real estate industry risk — This risk includes, among others: possible declines in the value of real estate; risks related to general and local economic conditions; possible lack of availability of mortgage funds; overbuilding; extended vacancies of properties; increases in competition, property taxes, and operating expenses; changes in zoning laws; costs resulting from the cleanup of, and liability to third parties resulting from, environmental problems; casualty for condemnation losses; uninsured damages from floods, earthquakes, or other natural disasters; limitations on and variations in rents; and changes in interest rates.

Derivatives risk — Derivative contracts, such as options, futures, and swaps, may involve additional expenses (such as the payment of premiums) and are subject to significant loss if a security, or a securities index to which a derivative contract is associated, moves in the opposite direction from what the portfolio manager anticipated. Derivative contracts are also subject to the risk that the counterparty may fail to perform its obligations under the contract due to financial difficulties (such as a bankruptcy or reorganization).

Liquidity risk — The possibility that securities cannot be readily sold within seven days at approximately the price at which a fund has valued them.

Government and regulatory risk — The risk that governments or regulatory authorities have, from time to time, taken or considered actions that could adversely affect various sectors of the securities markets.
Risk Lose Money [Text] rr_RiskLoseMoney Investing in any mutual fund involves the risk that you may lose part or all of the money you invest. Over time, the value of your investment in the Fund will increase and decrease according to changes in the value of the securities in the Fund's portfolio.
Bar Chart and Performance Table [Heading] rr_BarChartAndPerformanceTableHeading

How has Delaware Dividend Income Fund performed?

Performance Narrative [Text Block] rr_PerformanceNarrativeTextBlock

The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for the 1-, 5-, and 10-year periods compare with those of a broad measure of market performance. Prior to October 1, 2003, the Fund had not engaged in a broad distribution effort of its shares and had been subject to limited redemption requests. The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the future. The returns reflect expense caps in effect during certain of these periods. The returns would be lower without the expense caps. You may obtain the Fund's most recently available month-end performance by calling 800 523-1918 or by visiting our website at www.delawareinvestments.com/performance .
Performance Availability Phone [Text] rr_PerformanceAvailabilityPhone 800 523-1918
Performance Availability Website Address [Text] rr_PerformanceAvailabilityWebSiteAddress www.delawareinvestments.com/performance
Performance Past Does Not Indicate Future [Text] rr_PerformancePastDoesNotIndicateFuture The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the future.
Bar Chart [Heading] rr_BarChartHeading

Year-by-year total return (Institutional Class)

Bar Chart Closing [Text Block] rr_BarChartClosingTextBlock

During the periods illustrated in this bar chart, the Institutional Class' highest quarterly return was 15.66% for the quarter ended June 30, 2009 and its lowest quarterly return was -18.88% for the quarter ended December 31, 2008.
Performance Table Heading rr_PerformanceTableHeading

Average annual total returns for periods ended December 31, 2011

Performance Table Uses Highest Federal Rate rr_PerformanceTableUsesHighestFederalRate The after-tax returns shown are calculated using the highest individual federal marginal income tax rates in effect during the periods presented and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes.
Performance Table Not Relevant to Tax Deferred rr_PerformanceTableNotRelevantToTaxDeferred After-tax returns are not relevant for shares held in tax-deferred investment vehicles such as employer-sponsored 401(k) plans and individual retirement accounts (IRAs).
Performance Table Closing [Text Block] rr_PerformanceTableClosingTextBlock

Actual after-tax returns depend on the investor's individual tax situation and may differ from the returns shown. After-tax returns are not relevant for shares held in tax-deferred investment vehicles such as employer-sponsored 401(k) plans and individual retirement accounts (IRAs). The after-tax returns shown are calculated using the highest individual federal marginal income tax rates in effect during the periods presented and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes.
(Institutional) | (Delaware Dividend Income Fund) | S&P 500 Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses, or taxes)
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 2.11%
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 (0.25%)
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 2.92%
(Institutional) | (Delaware Dividend Income Fund) | Institutional Class
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Management fees rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets 0.65%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets none
Other expenses rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets 0.29%
Total annual fund operating expenses rr_ExpensesOverAssets 0.94%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleYear01 96
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear03 300
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear05 520
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear10 1,155
Annual Return 2002 rr_AnnualReturn2002 0.37%
Annual Return 2003 rr_AnnualReturn2003 24.45%
Annual Return 2004 rr_AnnualReturn2004 10.70%
Annual Return 2005 rr_AnnualReturn2005 3.01%
Annual Return 2006 rr_AnnualReturn2006 19.84%
Annual Return 2007 rr_AnnualReturn2007 (3.69%)
Annual Return 2008 rr_AnnualReturn2008 (32.31%)
Annual Return 2009 rr_AnnualReturn2009 36.76%
Annual Return 2010 rr_AnnualReturn2010 13.78%
Annual Return 2011 rr_AnnualReturn2011 2.34%
Highest Quarterly Return, Label rr_HighestQuarterlyReturnLabel highest quarterly return was 15.66% for the quarter ended June 30, 2009
Highest Quarterly Return, Date rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnDate Jun. 30, 2009
Highest Quarterly Return rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturn 15.66%
Lowest Quarterly Return, Label rr_LowestQuarterlyReturnLabel lowest quarterly return was -18.88% for the quarter ended December 31, 2008
Lowest Quarterly Return, Date rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnDate Dec. 31, 2008
Lowest Quarterly Return rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturn (18.88%)
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 2.34%
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 0.75%
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 5.89%
(Institutional) | (Delaware Dividend Income Fund) | Institutional Class | return after taxes on distributions
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 1.03%
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 (0.66%)
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 4.49%
(Institutional) | (Delaware Dividend Income Fund) | Institutional Class | return after taxes on distributions and sale of Fund shares
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 1.52%
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 (0.07%)
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 4.37%
(Retail) | (Delaware Dividend Income Fund)
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Objective [Heading] rr_ObjectiveHeading

What are the Fund's investment objectives?

Objective, Primary [Text Block] rr_ObjectivePrimaryTextBlock

Delaware Dividend Income Fund seeks to provide high current income and an investment that has the potential for capital appreciation.

Expense [Heading] rr_ExpenseHeading

What are the Fund's fees and expenses?

Expense Narrative [Text Block] rr_ExpenseNarrativeTextBlock

The following table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Fund. You may qualify for sales-charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $50,000 in Delaware Investments® Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial advisor, in the Fund's prospectus under the section entitled "About your account," and in the Fund's statement of additional information under the section entitled "Purchasing shares."

Shareholder Fees Caption [Text] rr_ShareholderFeesCaption

Shareholder fees (fees paid directly from your investment)

Operating Expenses Caption [Text] rr_OperatingExpensesCaption

Annual fund operating expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)

Portfolio Turnover [Heading] rr_PortfolioTurnoverHeading

Portfolio turnover

Portfolio Turnover [Text Block] rr_PortfolioTurnoverTextBlock

The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was 110% of the average value of its portfolio.
Portfolio Turnover, Rate rr_PortfolioTurnoverRate 110.00%
Expense Breakpoint Discounts [Text] rr_ExpenseBreakpointDiscounts You may qualify for sales-charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $50,000 in Delaware Investments® Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial advisor, in the Fund's prospectus under the section entitled "About your account," and in the Fund's statement of additional information under the section entitled "Purchasing shares."
Expense Breakpoint, Minimum Investment Required [Amount] rr_ExpenseBreakpointMinimumInvestmentRequiredAmount 50,000
Expense Example [Heading] rr_ExpenseExampleHeading

Example

Expense Example Narrative [Text Block] rr_ExpenseExampleNarrativeTextBlock

This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and reflects the applicable Distributor's expense waivers for the 1-year contractual period and the total operating expenses without waivers for years 2 through 10. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
Strategy [Heading] rr_StrategyHeading

What are the Fund's principal investment strategies?

Strategy Narrative [Text Block] rr_StrategyNarrativeTextBlock

The Fund invests primarily in income generating securities (debt and equity), which may include equity securities of large, well-established companies, and debt securities, including high yield, high-risk corporate bonds, investment-grade fixed income securities, and U.S. government securities.

Under normal circumstances, at least 50% of the Fund's total assets will be invested in income generating equity securities. In making investments in income generating equity securities, the Fund may invest an unlimited portion of its total assets in convertible securities without regard to credit quality. While debt securities may comprise up to 50% of the Fund's total assets, no more than 45% of the Fund's total assets will be invested in high yield, high-risk debt securities. No more than 25% of the Fund's total assets will be invested in any one industry sector nor, as to 75% of the Fund's total assets, will more than 5% be invested in securities of any one issuer. The Fund may invest up to 30% of its total assets in foreign equity and debt securities. The Fund will not, however, invest more than 5% of its total assets in securities of issuers principally located or principally operating in markets of emerging countries.

Within the percentage guidelines noted above, the Manager will determine the proportion of the Fund's assets that will be allocated to income generating equity securities and equity equivalents and to debt securities, based on its analysis of economic and market conditions and its assessment of the income and potential for appreciation that can be achieved from investments in such asset classes. It is expected that the proportion of the Fund's total assets invested in income generating equity securities and equity equivalent securities will vary from 50% to 100% of the Fund's total assets. The proportion of the Fund's total assets in debt securities will correspondingly vary from 0% to 50% of the Fund's total assets.
Risk [Heading] rr_RiskHeading

What are the principal risks of investing in the Fund?

Risk Narrative [Text Block] rr_RiskNarrativeTextBlock

Investing in any mutual fund involves the risk that you may lose part or all of the money you invest. Over time, the value of your investment in the Fund will increase and decrease according to changes in the value of the securities in the Fund's portfolio. Principal risks include:

Investments not guaranteed by the Manager or its affiliates — Investments in the Fund are not and will not be deposits with or liabilities of Macquarie Bank Limited ABN 46 008 583 542 and its holding companies, including their subsidiaries or related companies (Macquarie Group), and are subject to investment risk, including possible delays in repayment and loss of income and capital invested. No Macquarie Group company guarantees or will guarantee the performance of the Fund, the repayment of capital from the Fund, or any particular rate of return.

Market risk — The risk that all or a majority of the securities in a certain market — such as the stock or bond market — will decline in value because of factors such as adverse political or economic conditions, future expectations, investor confidence, or heavy institutional selling.

Industry risk — The risk that the value of securities in a particular industry (such as financial services or manufacturing) will decline because of changing expectations for the performance of that industry.

Credit risk — The risk that a bond's issuer will be unable to make timely payments of interest and principal. Investing in so-called "junk" or "high yield" bonds entails greater risk of principal loss than the risk involved in investment grade bonds.

Interest rate risk — The risk that securities will decrease in value if interest rates rise. This risk is generally associated with bonds.

Bank loans and other indebtedness risk — The risk that the portfolio will not receive payment of principal, interest, and other amounts due in connection with these investments and will depend primarily on the financial condition of the borrower and the lending institution.

High yield (junk bond) risk — The risk that high yield securities, commonly known as "junk bonds," are subject to reduced creditworthiness of issuers; increased risk of default and a more limited and less liquid secondary market; and greater price volatility and risk of loss of income and principal than are higher rated securities.

Foreign risk — The risk that foreign securities (particularly in emerging markets) may be adversely affected by political instability; changes in currency exchange rates; inefficient markets and higher transaction costs; foreign economic conditions; or inadequate or different regulatory and accounting standards.

Real estate industry risk — This risk includes, among others: possible declines in the value of real estate; risks related to general and local economic conditions; possible lack of availability of mortgage funds; overbuilding; extended vacancies of properties; increases in competition, property taxes, and operating expenses; changes in zoning laws; costs resulting from the cleanup of, and liability to third parties resulting from, environmental problems; casualty for condemnation losses; uninsured damages from floods, earthquakes, or other natural disasters; limitations on and variations in rents; and changes in interest rates.

Derivatives risk — Derivative contracts, such as options, futures, and swaps, may involve additional expenses (such as the payment of premiums) and are subject to significant loss if a security, or a securities index to which a derivative contract is associated, moves in the opposite direction from what the portfolio manager anticipated. Derivative contracts are also subject to the risk that the counterparty may fail to perform its obligations under the contract due to financial difficulties (such as a bankruptcy or reorganization).

Liquidity risk — The possibility that securities cannot be readily sold within seven days at approximately the price at which a fund has valued them.

Government and regulatory risk — The risk that governments or regulatory authorities have, from time to time, taken or considered actions that could adversely affect various sectors of the securities markets.
Risk Lose Money [Text] rr_RiskLoseMoney Investing in any mutual fund involves the risk that you may lose part or all of the money you invest. Over time, the value of your investment in the Fund will increase and decrease according to changes in the value of the securities in the Fund's portfolio.
Bar Chart and Performance Table [Heading] rr_BarChartAndPerformanceTableHeading

How has Delaware Dividend Income Fund performed?

Performance Narrative [Text Block] rr_PerformanceNarrativeTextBlock

The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for the 1-, 5-, and 10-year or lifetime periods compare with those of a broad measure of market performance. Prior to October 1, 2003, the Fund had not engaged in a broad distribution effort of its shares and had been subject to limited redemption requests. The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the future. The returns reflect expense caps in effect during certain of these periods. The returns would be lower without the expense caps. You may obtain the Fund's most recently available month-end performance by calling 800 523-1918 or by visiting our website at www.delawareinvestments.com/performance.

Performance Availability Phone [Text] rr_PerformanceAvailabilityPhone 800 523-1918
Performance Availability Website Address [Text] rr_PerformanceAvailabilityWebSiteAddress www.delawareinvestments.com/performance
Performance Past Does Not Indicate Future [Text] rr_PerformancePastDoesNotIndicateFuture The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the future.
Bar Chart [Heading] rr_BarChartHeading

Year-by-year total return (Class A)

Bar Chart Closing [Text Block] rr_BarChartClosingTextBlock

During the periods illustrated in this bar chart, Class A's highest quarterly return was 15.58% for the quarter ended June 30, 2009 and its lowest quarterly return was -18.93% for the quarter ended December 31, 2008. The maximum Class A sales charge of 5.75%, which is normally deducted when you purchase shares, is not reflected in the highest/lowest quarterly returns or in the bar chart. If this sales charge were included, the returns would be less than those shown. The average annual returns in the table below do include the sales charge.
Performance Table Heading rr_PerformanceTableHeading

Average annual total returns for periods ended December 31, 2011

Performance Table Uses Highest Federal Rate rr_PerformanceTableUsesHighestFederalRate The after-tax returns shown are calculated using the highest individual federal marginal income tax rates in effect during the periods presented and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes.
Performance Table Not Relevant to Tax Deferred rr_PerformanceTableNotRelevantToTaxDeferred After-tax returns are not relevant for shares held in tax-deferred investment vehicles such as employer-sponsored 401(k) plans and individual retirement accounts (IRAs).
Performance Table One Class of after Tax Shown [Text] rr_PerformanceTableOneClassOfAfterTaxShown After-tax performance is presented only for Class A shares of the Fund.
Performance Table Closing [Text Block] rr_PerformanceTableClosingTextBlock

After-tax performance is presented only for Class A shares of the Fund. The after-tax returns for other Fund classes may vary. Actual after-tax returns depend on the investor's individual tax situation and may differ from the returns shown. After-tax returns are not relevant for shares held in tax-deferred investment vehicles such as employer-sponsored 401(k) plans and individual retirement accounts (IRAs). The after-tax returns shown are calculated using the highest individual federal marginal income tax rates in effect during the periods presented and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes.
(Retail) | (Delaware Dividend Income Fund) | S&P 500 Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses, or taxes)
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 2.11%
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 (0.25%)
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 2.92%
(Retail) | (Delaware Dividend Income Fund) | Class A
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases as a percentage of offering price rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPrice 5.75%
Maximum contingent deferred sales charge (load) as a percentage of original purchase price or redemption price, whichever is lower rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOfferingPrice none
Management fees rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets 0.65%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets 0.30%
Other expenses rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets 0.29%
Total annual fund operating expenses rr_ExpensesOverAssets 1.24%
Fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets (0.05%) [3]
Total annual fund operating expenses after fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_NetExpensesOverAssets 1.19%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleYear01 689
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear03 941
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear05 1,212
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear10 1,985
Annual Return 2002 rr_AnnualReturn2002 0.37%
Annual Return 2003 rr_AnnualReturn2003 24.36%
Annual Return 2004 rr_AnnualReturn2004 10.43%
Annual Return 2005 rr_AnnualReturn2005 2.66%
Annual Return 2006 rr_AnnualReturn2006 19.65%
Annual Return 2007 rr_AnnualReturn2007 (3.93%)
Annual Return 2008 rr_AnnualReturn2008 (32.48%)
Annual Return 2009 rr_AnnualReturn2009 36.43%
Annual Return 2010 rr_AnnualReturn2010 13.50%
Annual Return 2011 rr_AnnualReturn2011 2.08%
Highest Quarterly Return, Label rr_HighestQuarterlyReturnLabel highest quarterly return was 15.58% for the quarter ended June 30, 2009
Highest Quarterly Return, Date rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnDate Jun. 30, 2009
Highest Quarterly Return rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturn 15.58%
Lowest Quarterly Return, Label rr_LowestQuarterlyReturnLabel lowest quarterly return was -18.93% for the quarter ended December 31, 2008
Lowest Quarterly Return, Date rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnDate Dec. 31, 2008
Lowest Quarterly Return rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturn (18.93%)
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (3.76%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 (0.69%)
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 5.05%
(Retail) | (Delaware Dividend Income Fund) | Class A | return after taxes on distributions
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (4.91%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 (1.99%)
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 3.73%
(Retail) | (Delaware Dividend Income Fund) | Class A | return after taxes on distributions and sale of Fund shares
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (2.45%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 (1.22%)
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 3.68%
(Retail) | (Delaware Dividend Income Fund) | Class B
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases as a percentage of offering price rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPrice none
Maximum contingent deferred sales charge (load) as a percentage of original purchase price or redemption price, whichever is lower rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOfferingPrice 4.00% [1]
Management fees rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets 0.65%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets 1.00%
Other expenses rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets 0.29%
Total annual fund operating expenses rr_ExpensesOverAssets 1.94%
Fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets   
Total annual fund operating expenses after fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_NetExpensesOverAssets 1.94%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleYear01 597
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear03 884
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear05 1,272
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear10 2,083
Expense Example, No Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear01 197
Expense Example, No Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear03 609
Expense Example, No Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear05 1,047
Expense Example, No Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear10 2,083
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (2.63%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 (0.62%)
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 4.17%
(Retail) | (Delaware Dividend Income Fund) | Class C
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases as a percentage of offering price rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPrice none
Maximum contingent deferred sales charge (load) as a percentage of original purchase price or redemption price, whichever is lower rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOfferingPrice 1.00% [1]
Management fees rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets 0.65%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets 1.00%
Other expenses rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets 0.29%
Total annual fund operating expenses rr_ExpensesOverAssets 1.94%
Fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets   
Total annual fund operating expenses after fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_NetExpensesOverAssets 1.94%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleYear01 297
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear03 609
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear05 1,047
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear10 2,264
Expense Example, No Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear01 197
Expense Example, No Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear03 609
Expense Example, No Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear05 1,047
Expense Example, No Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear10 2,264
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 0.33%
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 (0.25%)
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 4.16%
(Retail) | (Delaware Dividend Income Fund) | Class R
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases as a percentage of offering price rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPrice none
Maximum contingent deferred sales charge (load) as a percentage of original purchase price or redemption price, whichever is lower rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOfferingPrice none
Management fees rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets 0.65%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets 0.60%
Other expenses rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets 0.29%
Total annual fund operating expenses rr_ExpensesOverAssets 1.54%
Fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets (0.10%) [3]
Total annual fund operating expenses after fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_NetExpensesOverAssets 1.44%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleYear01 147
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear03 477
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear05 830
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear10 1,826
Label rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabel (lifetime: 10/1/03-12/31/11)
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 1.83%
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 0.25%
Lifetime rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInception 4.66%
(Institutional) | (Delaware Small Cap Core Fund)
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Objective [Heading] rr_ObjectiveHeading

What is the Fund's investment objective?

Objective, Primary [Text Block] rr_ObjectivePrimaryTextBlock

Delaware Small Cap Core Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation.

Expense [Heading] rr_ExpenseHeading

What are the Fund's fees and expenses?

Expense Narrative [Text Block] rr_ExpenseNarrativeTextBlock

The following table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Fund.

Operating Expenses Caption [Text] rr_OperatingExpensesCaption

Annual fund operating expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)

Portfolio Turnover [Heading] rr_PortfolioTurnoverHeading

Portfolio turnover

Portfolio Turnover [Text Block] rr_PortfolioTurnoverTextBlock

The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was 42% of the average value of its portfolio.
Portfolio Turnover, Rate rr_PortfolioTurnoverRate 42.00%
Expense Example [Heading] rr_ExpenseExampleHeading

Example

Expense Example Narrative [Text Block] rr_ExpenseExampleNarrativeTextBlock

This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and reflects the Manager's expense waivers and reimbursements for the 1-year contractual period and the total operating expenses without waivers for years 2 through 10. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:

Strategy [Heading] rr_StrategyHeading

What are the Fund's principal investment strategies?

Strategy Narrative [Text Block] rr_StrategyNarrativeTextBlock

The Fund invests primarily in stocks of small companies that the Manager believes have a combination of attractive valuations, growth prospects, and strong cash flows. Under normal circumstances, at least 80% of the Fund's net assets will be in investments of small-capitalization companies (the 80% policy). The Fund considers small-capitalization companies to be companies within the market capitalization range of the Russell 2000® Index at the time of purchase. The Fund's 80% policy may be changed without shareholder approval. However, shareholders will be given notice at least 60 days prior to any change.
Risk [Heading] rr_RiskHeading

What are the principal risks of investing in the Fund?

Risk Narrative [Text Block] rr_RiskNarrativeTextBlock

Investing in any mutual fund involves the risk that you may lose part or all of the money you invest. Over time, the value of your investment in the Fund will increase and decrease according to changes in the value of the securities in the Fund's portfolio. Principal risks include:

Investments not guaranteed by the Manager or its affiliates — Investments in the Fund are not and will not be deposits with or liabilities of Macquarie Bank Limited ABN 46 008 583 542 and its holding companies, including their subsidiaries or related companies (Macquarie Group), and are subject to investment risk, including possible delays in repayment and loss of income and capital invested. No Macquarie Group company guarantees or will guarantee the performance of the Fund, the repayment of capital from the Fund, or any particular rate of return.

Market risk — The risk that all or a majority of the securities in a certain market — such as the stock or bond market — will decline in value because of factors such as adverse political or economic conditions, future expectations, investor confidence, or heavy institutional selling.

Industry risk — The risk that the value of securities in a particular industry (such as financial services or manufacturing) will decline because of changing expectations for the performance of that industry.

Small company risk — The risk that prices of small- and medium-sized companies may be more volatile than those of larger companies because of limited financial resources or dependence on narrow product lines.

Interest rate risk — The risk that securities will decrease in value if interest rates rise. The risk is generally associated with bonds; however, because small- and medium-sized companies and companies in the real estate sector often borrow money to finance their operations, they may be adversely affected by rising interest rates.

Foreign risk — The risk that foreign securities (particularly in emerging markets) may be adversely affected by political instability; changes in currency exchange rates; inefficient markets and higher transaction costs; foreign economic conditions; or inadequate or different regulatory and accounting standards.

Liquidity risk — The possibility that securities cannot be readily sold within seven days at approximately the price at which a fund has valued them.

Counterparty risk — The risk that a counterparty to a derivative contract (such as a swap, futures, or options contract) or a repurchase agreement may fail to perform its obligations under the contract or agreement due to financial difficulties (such as a bankruptcy or reorganization).

Government and regulatory risk — The risk that governments or regulatory authorities have, from time to time, taken or considered actions that could adversely affect various sectors of the securities markets.
Risk Lose Money [Text] rr_RiskLoseMoney Investing in any mutual fund involves the risk that you may lose part or all of the money you invest. Over time, the value of your investment in the Fund will increase and decrease according to changes in the value of the securities in the Fund's portfolio.
Bar Chart and Performance Table [Heading] rr_BarChartAndPerformanceTableHeading

How has Delaware Small Cap Core Fund performed?

Performance Narrative [Text Block] rr_PerformanceNarrativeTextBlock

The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for the 1-, 5-, and 10-year periods compare with those of a broad measure of market performance. Prior to August 1, 2005, the Fund had not engaged in a broad distribution effort of its shares and had been subject to limited redemption requests. The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the future. The returns reflect expense caps in effect during certain of these periods. The returns would be lower without the expense caps. You may obtain the Fund's most recently available month-end performance by calling 800 523-1918 or by visiting our website at www.delawareinvestments.com/performance.

On November 1, 2004, the Fund's strategy and management changed. The new management team retained the Fund's small-cap focus by investing primarily in stocks of small companies that are believed to have a combination of attractive valuations, growth prospects, and strong cash flows.
Performance Availability Phone [Text] rr_PerformanceAvailabilityPhone 800 523-1918
Performance Availability Website Address [Text] rr_PerformanceAvailabilityWebSiteAddress www.delawareinvestments.com/performance
Performance Past Does Not Indicate Future [Text] rr_PerformancePastDoesNotIndicateFuture The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the future.
Bar Chart [Heading] rr_BarChartHeading

Year-by-year total return (Institutional Class)

Bar Chart Closing [Text Block] rr_BarChartClosingTextBlock

During the periods illustrated in this bar chart, the Institutional Class' highest quarterly return was 20.67% for the quarter ended June 30, 2009 and its lowest quarterly return was -26.15% for the quarter ended December 31, 2008.
Performance Table Heading rr_PerformanceTableHeading

Average annual total returns for periods ended December 31, 2011

Performance Table Uses Highest Federal Rate rr_PerformanceTableUsesHighestFederalRate The after-tax returns shown are calculated using the highest individual federal marginal income tax rates in effect during the periods presented and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes.
Performance Table Not Relevant to Tax Deferred rr_PerformanceTableNotRelevantToTaxDeferred After-tax returns are not relevant for shares held in tax-deferred investment vehicles such as employer-sponsored 401(k) plans and individual retirement accounts (IRAs).
Performance Table Closing [Text Block] rr_PerformanceTableClosingTextBlock

Actual after-tax returns depend on the investor's individual tax situation and may differ from the returns shown. After-tax returns are not relevant for shares held in tax-deferred investment vehicles such as employer-sponsored 401(k) plans and individual retirement accounts (IRAs). The after-tax returns shown are calculated using the highest individual federal marginal income tax rates in effect during the periods presented and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes.
(Institutional) | (Delaware Small Cap Core Fund) | Russell 2000® Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses, or taxes)
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (4.18%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 0.15%
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 5.62%
(Institutional) | (Delaware Small Cap Core Fund) | Institutional Class
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Management fees rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets 0.75%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets none
Other expenses rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets 0.40%
Total annual fund operating expenses rr_ExpensesOverAssets 1.15%
Fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets    [6]
Total annual fund operating expenses after fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_NetExpensesOverAssets 1.15%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleYear01 117
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear03 365
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear05 633
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear10 1,398
Annual Return 2002 rr_AnnualReturn2002 (6.84%)
Annual Return 2003 rr_AnnualReturn2003 42.70%
Annual Return 2004 rr_AnnualReturn2004 21.39%
Annual Return 2005 rr_AnnualReturn2005 5.44%
Annual Return 2006 rr_AnnualReturn2006 17.06%
Annual Return 2007 rr_AnnualReturn2007 (4.52%)
Annual Return 2008 rr_AnnualReturn2008 (35.07%)
Annual Return 2009 rr_AnnualReturn2009 27.35%
Annual Return 2010 rr_AnnualReturn2010 28.72%
Annual Return 2011 rr_AnnualReturn2011 0.58%
Highest Quarterly Return, Label rr_HighestQuarterlyReturnLabel highest quarterly return was 20.67% for the quarter ended June 30, 2009
Highest Quarterly Return, Date rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnDate Jun. 30, 2009
Highest Quarterly Return rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturn 20.67%
Lowest Quarterly Return, Label rr_LowestQuarterlyReturnLabel lowest quarterly return was -26.15% for the quarter ended December 31, 2008
Lowest Quarterly Return, Date rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnDate Dec. 31, 2008
Lowest Quarterly Return rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturn (26.15%)
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 0.58%
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 0.44%
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 7.37%
(Institutional) | (Delaware Small Cap Core Fund) | Institutional Class | return after taxes on distributions
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 0.58%
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 0.24%
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 6.23%
(Institutional) | (Delaware Small Cap Core Fund) | Institutional Class | return after taxes on distributions and sale of Fund shares
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 0.38%
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 0.32%
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 6.05%
(Retail) | (Delaware Small Cap Core Fund)
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Objective [Heading] rr_ObjectiveHeading

What is the Fund's investment objective?

Objective, Primary [Text Block] rr_ObjectivePrimaryTextBlock

Delaware Small Cap Core Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation.

Expense [Heading] rr_ExpenseHeading

What are the Fund's fees and expenses?

Expense Narrative [Text Block] rr_ExpenseNarrativeTextBlock

The following table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Fund. You may qualify for sales-charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $50,000 in Delaware Investments® Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial advisor, in the Fund's prospectus under the section entitled "About your account," and in the Fund's statement of additional information under the section entitled "Purchasing shares."

Shareholder Fees Caption [Text] rr_ShareholderFeesCaption

Shareholder fees (fees paid directly from your investment)

Operating Expenses Caption [Text] rr_OperatingExpensesCaption

Annual fund operating expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)

Portfolio Turnover [Heading] rr_PortfolioTurnoverHeading

Portfolio turnover

Portfolio Turnover [Text Block] rr_PortfolioTurnoverTextBlock

The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was 42% of the average value of its portfolio.
Portfolio Turnover, Rate rr_PortfolioTurnoverRate 42.00%
Expense Breakpoint Discounts [Text] rr_ExpenseBreakpointDiscounts You may qualify for sales-charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $50,000 in Delaware Investments® Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial advisor, in the Fund's prospectus under the section entitled "About your account," and in the Fund's statement of additional information under the section entitled "Purchasing shares."
Expense Breakpoint, Minimum Investment Required [Amount] rr_ExpenseBreakpointMinimumInvestmentRequiredAmount 50,000
Expense Example [Heading] rr_ExpenseExampleHeading

Example

Expense Example Narrative [Text Block] rr_ExpenseExampleNarrativeTextBlock

This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and reflects the applicable waivers and reimbursements for the 1-year contractual period and the total operating expenses without waivers for years 2 through 10. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
Strategy [Heading] rr_StrategyHeading

What are the Fund's principal investment strategies?

Strategy Narrative [Text Block] rr_StrategyNarrativeTextBlock

The Fund invests primarily in stocks of small companies that the Manager believes have a combination of attractive valuations, growth prospects, and strong cash flows. Under normal circumstances, at least 80% of the Fund's net assets will be in investments of small-capitalization companies (the 80% policy). The Fund considers small-capitalization companies to be companies within the market capitalization range of the Russell 2000® Index at the time of purchase. The Fund's 80% policy may be changed without shareholder approval. However, shareholders will be given notice at least 60 days prior to any change.
Risk [Heading] rr_RiskHeading

What are the principal risks of investing in the Fund?

Risk Narrative [Text Block] rr_RiskNarrativeTextBlock

Investing in any mutual fund involves the risk that you may lose part or all of the money you invest. Over time, the value of your investment in the Fund will increase and decrease according to changes in the value of the securities in the Fund's portfolio. Principal risks include:

Investments not guaranteed by the Manager or its affiliates — Investments in the Fund are not and will not be deposits with or liabilities of Macquarie Bank Limited ABN 46 008 583 542 and its holding companies, including their subsidiaries or related companies (Macquarie Group), and are subject to investment risk, including possible delays in repayment and loss of income and capital invested. No Macquarie Group company guarantees or will guarantee the performance of the Fund, the repayment of capital from the Fund, or any particular rate of return.

Market risk — The risk that all or a majority of the securities in a certain market — such as the stock or bond market — will decline in value because of factors such as adverse political or economic conditions, future expectations, investor confidence, or heavy institutional selling.

Industry risk — The risk that the value of securities in a particular industry (such as financial services or manufacturing) will decline because of changing expectations for the performance of that industry.

Small company risk — The risk that prices of small- and medium-sized companies may be more volatile than those of larger companies because of limited financial resources or dependence on narrow product lines.

Interest rate risk — The risk that securities will decrease in value if interest rates rise. The risk is generally associated with bonds; however, because small- and medium-sized companies and companies in the real estate sector often borrow money to finance their operations, they may be adversely affected by rising interest rates.

Foreign risk — The risk that foreign securities (particularly in emerging markets) may be adversely affected by political instability; changes in currency exchange rates; inefficient markets and higher transaction costs; foreign economic conditions; or inadequate or different regulatory and accounting standards.

Liquidity risk — The possibility that securities cannot be readily sold within seven days at approximately the price at which a fund has valued them.

Counterparty risk — The risk that a counterparty to a derivative contract (such as a swap, futures, or options contract) or a repurchase agreement may fail to perform its obligations under the contract or agreement due to financial difficulties (such as a bankruptcy or reorganization).

Government and regulatory risk — The risk that governments or regulatory authorities have, from time to time, taken or considered actions that could adversely affect various sectors of the securities markets.
Risk Lose Money [Text] rr_RiskLoseMoney Investing in any mutual fund involves the risk that you may lose part or all of the money you invest. Over time, the value of your investment in the Fund will increase and decrease according to changes in the value of the securities in the Fund's portfolio.
Bar Chart and Performance Table [Heading] rr_BarChartAndPerformanceTableHeading

How has Delaware Small Cap Core Fund performed?

Performance Narrative [Text Block] rr_PerformanceNarrativeTextBlock

The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for the 1-, 5-, and 10-year or lifetime periods compare with those of a broad measure of market performance. Prior to August 1, 2005, the Fund had not engaged in a broad distribution effort of its shares and had been subject to limited redemption requests. The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the future. The returns reflect expense caps in effect during these periods. The returns would be lower without the expense caps. You may obtain the Fund's most recently available month-end performance by calling 800 523-1918 or by visiting our website at www.delawareinvestments.com/performance.

On November 1, 2004, the Fund's strategy and management changed. The new management team retained the Fund's small-cap focus by investing primarily in stocks of small companies that are believed to have a combination of attractive valuations, growth prospects, and strong cash flows.
Performance Availability Phone [Text] rr_PerformanceAvailabilityPhone 800 523-1918
Performance Availability Website Address [Text] rr_PerformanceAvailabilityWebSiteAddress www.delawareinvestments.com/performance
Performance Past Does Not Indicate Future [Text] rr_PerformancePastDoesNotIndicateFuture The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the future.
Bar Chart [Heading] rr_BarChartHeading

Year-by-year total return (Class A)

Bar Chart Closing [Text Block] rr_BarChartClosingTextBlock

During the periods illustrated in this bar chart, Class A's highest quarterly return was 20.77% for the quarter ended June 30, 2009 and its lowest quarterly return was -26.16% for the quarter ended December 31, 2008. The maximum Class A sales charge of 5.75%, which is normally deducted when you purchase shares, is not reflected in the highest/lowest quarterly returns or in the bar chart. If this sales charge were included, the returns would be less than those shown. The average annual returns in the table below do include the sales charge.
Performance Table Heading rr_PerformanceTableHeading

Average annual total returns for periods ended December 31, 2011

Performance Table Uses Highest Federal Rate rr_PerformanceTableUsesHighestFederalRate The after-tax returns shown are calculated using the highest individual federal marginal income tax rates in effect during the periods presented and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes.
Performance Table Not Relevant to Tax Deferred rr_PerformanceTableNotRelevantToTaxDeferred After-tax returns are not relevant for shares held in tax-deferred investment vehicles such as employer-sponsored 401(k) plans and individual retirement accounts (IRAs).
Performance Table One Class of after Tax Shown [Text] rr_PerformanceTableOneClassOfAfterTaxShown After-tax performance is presented only for Class A shares of the Fund.
Performance Table Closing [Text Block] rr_PerformanceTableClosingTextBlock

After-tax performance is presented only for Class A shares of the Fund. The after-tax returns for other Fund classes may vary. Actual after-tax returns depend on the investor's individual tax situation and may differ from the returns shown. After-tax returns are not relevant for shares held in tax-deferred investment vehicles such as employer-sponsored 401(k) plans and individual retirement accounts (IRAs). The after-tax returns shown are calculated using the highest individual federal marginal income tax rates in effect during the periods presented and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes.
(Retail) | (Delaware Small Cap Core Fund) | Russell 2000® Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses, or taxes)
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (4.18%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 0.15%
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 5.62%
(Retail) | (Delaware Small Cap Core Fund) | Class A
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases as a percentage of offering price rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPrice 5.75%
Maximum contingent deferred sales charge (load) as a percentage of original purchase price or redemption price, whichever is lower rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOfferingPrice none
Management fees rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets 0.75%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets 0.30%
Other expenses rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets 0.40%
Total annual fund operating expenses rr_ExpensesOverAssets 1.45%
Fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets (0.05%) [4]
Total annual fund operating expenses after fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_NetExpensesOverAssets 1.40%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleYear01 709
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear03 1,003
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear05 1,318
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear10 2,206
Annual Return 2002 rr_AnnualReturn2002 (6.84%)
Annual Return 2003 rr_AnnualReturn2003 42.07%
Annual Return 2004 rr_AnnualReturn2004 21.39%
Annual Return 2005 rr_AnnualReturn2005 5.26%
Annual Return 2006 rr_AnnualReturn2006 16.87%
Annual Return 2007 rr_AnnualReturn2007 (4.76%)
Annual Return 2008 rr_AnnualReturn2008 (35.24%)
Annual Return 2009 rr_AnnualReturn2009 26.95%
Annual Return 2010 rr_AnnualReturn2010 28.49%
Annual Return 2011 rr_AnnualReturn2011 0.33%
Highest Quarterly Return, Label rr_HighestQuarterlyReturnLabel highest quarterly return was 20.77% for the quarter ended June 30, 2009
Highest Quarterly Return, Date rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnDate Jun. 30, 2009
Highest Quarterly Return rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturn 20.77%
Lowest Quarterly Return, Label rr_LowestQuarterlyReturnLabel lowest quarterly return was -26.16% for the quarter ended December 31, 2008
Lowest Quarterly Return, Date rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnDate Dec. 31, 2008
Lowest Quarterly Return rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturn (26.16%)
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (5.47%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 (1.00%)
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 6.57%
(Retail) | (Delaware Small Cap Core Fund) | Class A | return after taxes on distributions
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (5.47%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 (1.17%)
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 5.46%
(Retail) | (Delaware Small Cap Core Fund) | Class A | return after taxes on distributions and sale of Fund shares
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (3.55%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 (0.89%)
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 5.35%
(Retail) | (Delaware Small Cap Core Fund) | Class C
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases as a percentage of offering price rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPrice none
Maximum contingent deferred sales charge (load) as a percentage of original purchase price or redemption price, whichever is lower rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOfferingPrice 1.00% [2]
Management fees rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets 0.75%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets 1.00%
Other expenses rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets 0.40%
Total annual fund operating expenses rr_ExpensesOverAssets 2.15%
Fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets    [4]
Total annual fund operating expenses after fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_NetExpensesOverAssets 2.15%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleYear01 318
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear03 673
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear05 1,154
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear10 2,483
Expense Example, No Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear01 218
Expense Example, No Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear03 673
Expense Example, No Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear05 1,154
Expense Example, No Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear10 2,483
Label rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabel (lifetime: 8/1/05-12/31/11)
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (1.43%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 (0.56%)
Lifetime rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInception 1.49%
(Retail) | (Delaware Small Cap Core Fund) | Class R
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases as a percentage of offering price rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPrice none
Maximum contingent deferred sales charge (load) as a percentage of original purchase price or redemption price, whichever is lower rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOfferingPrice none
Management fees rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets 0.75%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets 0.60%
Other expenses rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets 0.40%
Total annual fund operating expenses rr_ExpensesOverAssets 1.75%
Fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets (0.10%) [4]
Total annual fund operating expenses after fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_NetExpensesOverAssets 1.65%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleYear01 168
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear03 541
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear05 940
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear10 2,054
Label rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabel (lifetime: 8/1/05-12/31/11)
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 0.08%
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 (0.07%)
Lifetime rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInception 2.00%
(Institutional) | (Delaware Small Cap Value Fund)
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Objective [Heading] rr_ObjectiveHeading

What is the Fund's investment objective?

Objective, Primary [Text Block] rr_ObjectivePrimaryTextBlock

Delaware Small Cap Value Fund seeks capital appreciation.

Expense [Heading] rr_ExpenseHeading

What are the Fund's fees and expenses?

Expense Narrative [Text Block] rr_ExpenseNarrativeTextBlock

The following table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Fund.

Operating Expenses Caption [Text] rr_OperatingExpensesCaption

Annual fund operating expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)

Portfolio Turnover [Heading] rr_PortfolioTurnoverHeading

Portfolio turnover

Portfolio Turnover [Text Block] rr_PortfolioTurnoverTextBlock

The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was 29% of the average value of its portfolio.
Portfolio Turnover, Rate rr_PortfolioTurnoverRate 29.00%
Expense Example [Heading] rr_ExpenseExampleHeading

Example

Expense Example Narrative [Text Block] rr_ExpenseExampleNarrativeTextBlock

The example below is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund to the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The example shows the cumulative amount of Fund expenses on a hypothetical investment of $10,000 with an annual 5% return over the time shown. This example assumes that the Fund's total operating expenses remain unchanged in each of the periods shown. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
Strategy [Heading] rr_StrategyHeading

What are the Fund's principal investment strategies?

Strategy Narrative [Text Block] rr_StrategyNarrativeTextBlock

The Fund invests primarily in investments of small companies whose stock prices appear low relative to their underlying value or future potential. Among other factors, the Manager considers the financial strength of a company, its management, the prospects for its industry, and any anticipated changes within the company that might suggest a more favorable outlook going forward. We focus on free cash flow in our individual stock selection, seeking companies that we believe have a sustainable ability to buy back shares, lower debt, and/or increase or initiate dividends. Under normal circumstances, at least 80% of the Fund's net assets will be in investments of small-capitalization companies (the 80% policy). The Fund considers small-capitalization companies to be companies with a market capitalization generally less than 3.5 times the dollar-weighted, median market capitalization of the Russell 2000® Index at the time of purchase. The Fund's 80% policy can be changed without shareholder approval. However, shareholders would be given notice at least 60 days prior to any change.
Risk [Heading] rr_RiskHeading

What are the principal risks of investing in the Fund?

Risk Narrative [Text Block] rr_RiskNarrativeTextBlock

Investing in any mutual fund involves the risk that you may lose part or all of the money you invest. Over time, the value of your investment in the Fund will increase and decrease according to changes in the value of the securities in the Fund's portfolio. Principal risks include:

Investments not guaranteed by the Manager or its affiliates — Investments in the Fund are not and will not be deposits with or liabilities of Macquarie Bank Limited ABN 46 008 583 542 and its holding companies, including their subsidiaries or related companies (Macquarie Group), and are subject to investment risk, including possible delays in repayment and loss of income and capital invested. No Macquarie Group company guarantees or will guarantee the performance of the Fund, the repayment of capital from the Fund, or any particular rate of return.

Market risk — The risk that all or a majority of the securities in a certain market — such as the stock or bond market — will decline in value because of factors such as adverse political or economic conditions, future expectations, investor confidence, or heavy institutional selling.

Industry risk — The risk that the value of securities in a particular industry (such as financial services or manufacturing) will decline because of changing expectations for the performance of that industry.

Small company risk — The risk that prices of small- and medium-sized companies may be more volatile than those of larger companies because of limited financial resources or dependence on narrow product lines.

Interest rate risk — The risk that securities will decrease in value if interest rates rise. The risk is generally associated with bonds; however, because small- and medium-sized companies and companies in the real estate sector often borrow money to finance their operations, they may be adversely affected by rising interest rates.

Foreign risk — The risk that foreign securities (particularly in emerging markets) may be adversely affected by political instability; changes in currency exchange rates; inefficient markets and higher transaction costs; foreign economic conditions; or inadequate or different regulatory and accounting standards.

Liquidity risk — The possibility that securities cannot be readily sold within seven days at approximately the price at which a fund has valued them.

Counterparty risk — The risk that a counterparty to a derivative contract (such as a swap, futures, or options contract) or a repurchase agreement may fail to perform its obligations under the contract or agreement due to financial difficulties (such as a bankruptcy or reorganization).

Government and regulatory risk — The risk that governments or regulatory authorities have, from time to time, taken or considered actions that could adversely affect various sectors of the securities markets.
Risk Lose Money [Text] rr_RiskLoseMoney Investing in any mutual fund involves the risk that you may lose part or all of the money you invest. Over time, the value of your investment in the Fund will increase and decrease according to changes in the value of the securities in the Fund's portfolio.
Risk Nondiversified Status [Text] rr_RiskNondiversifiedStatus Nondiversification risk — A nondiversified fund has the flexibility to invest as much as 50% of its assets in as few as two issuers with no single issuer accounting for more than 25% of the fund. The remaining 50% of its assets must be diversified so that no more than 5% of its assets are invested in the securities of a single issuer. Because a nondiversified fund may invest its assets in fewer issuers, the value of its shares may increase or decrease more rapidly than if it were fully diversified.
Bar Chart and Performance Table [Heading] rr_BarChartAndPerformanceTableHeading

How has Delaware Small Cap Value Fund performed?

Performance Narrative [Text Block] rr_PerformanceNarrativeTextBlock

The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for the 1-, 5-, and 10-year periods compare with those of a broad measure of market performance. The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the future. The returns reflect expense caps in effect during certain of these periods. The returns would be lower without the expense caps. You may obtain the Fund's most recently available month-end performance by calling 800 523-1918 or by visiting our website at www.delawareinvestments.com/performance.
Performance Availability Phone [Text] rr_PerformanceAvailabilityPhone 800 523-1918
Performance Availability Website Address [Text] rr_PerformanceAvailabilityWebSiteAddress www.delawareinvestments.com/performance
Performance Past Does Not Indicate Future [Text] rr_PerformancePastDoesNotIndicateFuture The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the future.
Bar Chart [Heading] rr_BarChartHeading

Year-by-year total return (Institutional Class)

Bar Chart Closing [Text Block] rr_BarChartClosingTextBlock

During the periods illustrated in this bar chart, the Institutional Class' highest quarterly return was 22.86% for the quarter ended September 30, 2009 and its lowest quarterly return was -24.73% for the quarter ended December 31, 2008.
Performance Table Heading rr_PerformanceTableHeading

Average annual total returns for periods ended December 31, 2011

Performance Table Uses Highest Federal Rate rr_PerformanceTableUsesHighestFederalRate The after-tax returns shown are calculated using the highest individual federal marginal income tax rates in effect during the periods presented and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes.
Performance Table Not Relevant to Tax Deferred rr_PerformanceTableNotRelevantToTaxDeferred After-tax returns are not relevant for shares held in tax-deferred investment vehicles such as employer-sponsored 401(k) plans and individual retirement accounts (IRAs).
Performance Table Closing [Text Block] rr_PerformanceTableClosingTextBlock

Actual after-tax returns depend on the investor's individual tax situation and may differ from the returns shown. After-tax returns are not relevant for shares held in tax-deferred investment vehicles such as employer-sponsored 401(k) plans and individual retirement accounts (IRAs). The after-tax returns shown are calculated using the highest individual federal marginal income tax rates in effect during the periods presented and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes.
(Institutional) | (Delaware Small Cap Value Fund) | Russell 2000® Value Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses, or taxes)
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (5.50%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 (1.88%)
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 6.40%
(Institutional) | (Delaware Small Cap Value Fund) | Institutional Class
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Management fees rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets 0.75%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets none
Other expenses rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets 0.37%
Total annual fund operating expenses rr_ExpensesOverAssets 1.12%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleYear01 114
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear03 356
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear05 617
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear10 1,363
Annual Return 2002 rr_AnnualReturn2002 (6.03%)
Annual Return 2003 rr_AnnualReturn2003 42.16%
Annual Return 2004 rr_AnnualReturn2004 21.37%
Annual Return 2005 rr_AnnualReturn2005 8.96%
Annual Return 2006 rr_AnnualReturn2006 15.67%
Annual Return 2007 rr_AnnualReturn2007 (7.22%)
Annual Return 2008 rr_AnnualReturn2008 (30.34%)
Annual Return 2009 rr_AnnualReturn2009 32.31%
Annual Return 2010 rr_AnnualReturn2010 31.30%
Annual Return 2011 rr_AnnualReturn2011 (0.91%)
Highest Quarterly Return, Label rr_HighestQuarterlyReturnLabel highest quarterly return was 22.86% for the quarter ended September 30, 2009
Highest Quarterly Return, Date rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnDate Sep. 30, 2009
Highest Quarterly Return rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturn 22.86%
Lowest Quarterly Return, Label rr_LowestQuarterlyReturnLabel lowest quarterly return was -24.73% for the quarter ended December 31, 2008
Lowest Quarterly Return, Date rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnDate Dec. 31, 2008
Lowest Quarterly Return rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturn (24.73%)
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (0.91%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 2.15%
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 8.56%
(Institutional) | (Delaware Small Cap Value Fund) | Institutional Class | return after taxes on distributions
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (1.76%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 1.65%
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 7.61%
(Institutional) | (Delaware Small Cap Value Fund) | Institutional Class | return after taxes on distributions and sale of Fund shares
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 0.14%
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 1.75%
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 7.31%
(Retail) | (Delaware Small Cap Value Fund)
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Objective [Heading] rr_ObjectiveHeading

What is the Fund's investment objective?

Objective, Primary [Text Block] rr_ObjectivePrimaryTextBlock

Delaware Small Cap Value Fund seeks capital appreciation.

Expense [Heading] rr_ExpenseHeading

What are the Fund's fees and expenses?

Expense Narrative [Text Block] rr_ExpenseNarrativeTextBlock

The following table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Fund. You may qualify for sales-charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $50,000 in Delaware Investments® Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial advisor, in the Fund's prospectus under the section entitled "About your account," and in the Fund's statement of additional information under the section entitled "Purchasing shares."

Shareholder Fees Caption [Text] rr_ShareholderFeesCaption

Shareholder fees (fees paid directly from your investment)

Operating Expenses Caption [Text] rr_OperatingExpensesCaption

Annual fund operating expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)

Portfolio Turnover [Heading] rr_PortfolioTurnoverHeading

Portfolio turnover

Portfolio Turnover [Text Block] rr_PortfolioTurnoverTextBlock

The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was 29% of the average value of its portfolio.
Portfolio Turnover, Rate rr_PortfolioTurnoverRate 29.00%
Expense Breakpoint Discounts [Text] rr_ExpenseBreakpointDiscounts You may qualify for sales-charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $50,000 in Delaware Investments® Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial advisor, in the Fund's prospectus under the section entitled "About your account," and in the Fund's statement of additional information under the section entitled "Purchasing shares."
Expense Breakpoint, Minimum Investment Required [Amount] rr_ExpenseBreakpointMinimumInvestmentRequiredAmount 50,000
Expense Example [Heading] rr_ExpenseExampleHeading

Example

Expense Example Narrative [Text Block] rr_ExpenseExampleNarrativeTextBlock

This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and reflects the applicable Distributor's expense waivers for the 1-year contractual period and the total operating expenses without waivers for years 2 through 10. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
Strategy [Heading] rr_StrategyHeading

What are the Fund's principal investment strategies?

Strategy Narrative [Text Block] rr_StrategyNarrativeTextBlock

The Fund invests primarily in investments of small companies whose stock prices appear low relative to their underlying value or future potential. Among other factors, the Manager considers the financial strength of a company, its management, the prospects for its industry, and any anticipated changes within the company that might suggest a more favorable outlook going forward. We focus on free cash flow in our individual stock selection, seeking companies that we believe have a sustainable ability to buy back shares, lower debt, and/or increase or initiate dividends. Under normal circumstances, at least 80% of the Fund's net assets will be in investments of small-capitalization companies (the 80% policy). The Fund considers small-capitalization companies to be companies with a market capitalization generally less than 3.5 times the dollar-weighted, median market capitalization of the Russell 2000® Index at the time of purchase. The Fund's 80% policy can be changed without shareholder approval. However, shareholders would be given notice at least 60 days prior to any change.
Risk [Heading] rr_RiskHeading

What are the principal risks of investing in the Fund?

Risk Narrative [Text Block] rr_RiskNarrativeTextBlock

Investing in any mutual fund involves the risk that you may lose part or all of the money you invest. Over time, the value of your investment in the Fund will increase and decrease according to changes in the value of the securities in the Fund's portfolio. Principal risks include:

Investments not guaranteed by the Manager or its affiliates — Investments in the Fund are not and will not be deposits with or liabilities of Macquarie Bank Limited ABN 46 008 583 542 and its holding companies, including their subsidiaries or related companies (Macquarie Group), and are subject to investment risk, including possible delays in repayment and loss of income and capital invested. No Macquarie Group company guarantees or will guarantee the performance of the Fund, the repayment of capital from the Fund, or any particular rate of return.

Market risk — The risk that all or a majority of the securities in a certain market — such as the stock or bond market — will decline in value because of factors such as adverse political or economic conditions, future expectations, investor confidence, or heavy institutional selling.

Industry risk — The risk that the value of securities in a particular industry (such as financial services or manufacturing) will decline because of changing expectations for the performance of that industry.

Small company risk — The risk that prices of small- and medium-sized companies may be more volatile than those of larger companies because of limited financial resources or dependence on narrow product lines.

Interest rate risk — The risk that securities will decrease in value if interest rates rise. The risk is generally associated with bonds; however, because small- and medium-sized companies and companies in the real estate sector often borrow money to finance their operations, they may be adversely affected by rising interest rates.

Foreign risk — The risk that foreign securities (particularly in emerging markets) may be adversely affected by political instability; changes in currency exchange rates; inefficient markets and higher transaction costs; foreign economic conditions; or inadequate or different regulatory and accounting standards.

Liquidity risk — The possibility that securities cannot be readily sold within seven days at approximately the price at which a fund has valued them.

Counterparty risk — The risk that a counterparty to a derivative contract (such as a swap, futures, or options contract) or a repurchase agreement may fail to perform its obligations under the contract or agreement due to financial difficulties (such as a bankruptcy or reorganization).

Government and regulatory risk — The risk that governments or regulatory authorities have, from time to time, taken or considered actions that could adversely affect various sectors of the securities markets.
Risk Lose Money [Text] rr_RiskLoseMoney Investing in any mutual fund involves the risk that you may lose part or all of the money you invest. Over time, the value of your investment in the Fund will increase and decrease according to changes in the value of the securities in the Fund's portfolio.
Risk Nondiversified Status [Text] rr_RiskNondiversifiedStatus Nondiversification risk — A nondiversified fund has the flexibility to invest as much as 50% of its assets in as few as two issuers with no single issuer accounting for more than 25% of the fund. The remaining 50% of its assets must be diversified so that no more than 5% of its assets are invested in the securities of a single issuer. Because a nondiversified fund may invest its assets in fewer issuers, the value of its shares may increase or decrease more rapidly than if it were fully diversified.
Bar Chart and Performance Table [Heading] rr_BarChartAndPerformanceTableHeading

How has Delaware Small Cap Value Fund performed?

Performance Narrative [Text Block] rr_PerformanceNarrativeTextBlock

The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for the 1-, 5-, and 10-year or lifetime periods compare with those of a broad measure of market performance. The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the future. The returns reflect expense caps in effect during certain of these periods. The returns would be lower without the expense caps. You may obtain the Fund's most recently available month-end performance by calling 800 523-1918 or by visiting our website at www.delawareinvestments.com/performance.
Performance Availability Phone [Text] rr_PerformanceAvailabilityPhone 800 523-1918
Performance Availability Website Address [Text] rr_PerformanceAvailabilityWebSiteAddress www.delawareinvestments.com/performance
Performance Past Does Not Indicate Future [Text] rr_PerformancePastDoesNotIndicateFuture The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the future.
Bar Chart [Heading] rr_BarChartHeading

Year-by-year total return (Class A)

Bar Chart Closing [Text Block] rr_BarChartClosingTextBlock

During the periods illustrated in this bar chart, Class A's highest quarterly return was 22.78% for the quarter ended September 30, 2009 and its lowest quarterly return was -24.77% for the quarter ended December 31, 2008. The maximum Class A sales charge of 5.75%, which is normally deducted when you purchase shares, is not reflected in the highest/lowest quarterly returns or in the bar chart. If this sales charge were included, the returns would be less than those shown. The average annual returns in the table below do include the sales charge.
Performance Table Heading rr_PerformanceTableHeading

Average annual total returns for periods ended December 31, 2011

Performance Table Uses Highest Federal Rate rr_PerformanceTableUsesHighestFederalRate The after-tax returns shown are calculated using the highest individual federal marginal income tax rates in effect during the periods presented and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes.
Performance Table Not Relevant to Tax Deferred rr_PerformanceTableNotRelevantToTaxDeferred After-tax returns are not relevant for shares held in tax-deferred investment vehicles such as employer-sponsored 401(k) plans and individual retirement accounts (IRAs).
Performance Table One Class of after Tax Shown [Text] rr_PerformanceTableOneClassOfAfterTaxShown After-tax performance is presented only for Class A shares of the Fund.
Performance Table Closing [Text Block] rr_PerformanceTableClosingTextBlock

After-tax performance is presented only for Class A shares of the Fund. The after-tax returns for other Fund classes may vary. Actual after-tax returns depend on the investor's individual tax situation and may differ from the returns shown. After-tax returns are not relevant for shares held in tax-deferred investment vehicles such as employer-sponsored 401(k) plans and individual retirement accounts (IRAs). The after-tax returns shown are calculated using the highest individual federal marginal income tax rates in effect during the periods presented and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes.
(Retail) | (Delaware Small Cap Value Fund) | Russell 2000® Value Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses, or taxes)
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (5.50%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 (1.88%)
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 6.40%
(Retail) | (Delaware Small Cap Value Fund) | Class A
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases as a percentage of offering price rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPrice 5.75%
Maximum contingent deferred sales charge (load) as a percentage of original purchase price or redemption price, whichever is lower rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOfferingPrice none
Management fees rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets 0.75%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets 0.30%
Other expenses rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets 0.37%
Total annual fund operating expenses rr_ExpensesOverAssets 1.42%
Fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets (0.05%) [5]
Total annual fund operating expenses after fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_NetExpensesOverAssets 1.37%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleYear01 706
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear03 994
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear05 1,302
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear10 2,175
Annual Return 2002 rr_AnnualReturn2002 (6.33%)
Annual Return 2003 rr_AnnualReturn2003 41.73%
Annual Return 2004 rr_AnnualReturn2004 21.04%
Annual Return 2005 rr_AnnualReturn2005 8.61%
Annual Return 2006 rr_AnnualReturn2006 15.35%
Annual Return 2007 rr_AnnualReturn2007 (7.45%)
Annual Return 2008 rr_AnnualReturn2008 (30.51%)
Annual Return 2009 rr_AnnualReturn2009 31.99%
Annual Return 2010 rr_AnnualReturn2010 30.95%
Annual Return 2011 rr_AnnualReturn2011 (1.15%)
Highest Quarterly Return, Label rr_HighestQuarterlyReturnLabel highest quarterly return was 22.78% for the quarter ended September 30, 2009
Highest Quarterly Return, Date rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnDate Sep. 30, 2009
Highest Quarterly Return rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturn 22.78%
Lowest Quarterly Return, Label rr_LowestQuarterlyReturnLabel lowest quarterly return was -24.77% for the quarter ended December 31, 2008
Lowest Quarterly Return, Date rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnDate Dec. 31, 2008
Lowest Quarterly Return rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturn (24.77%)
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (6.84%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 0.70%
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 7.62%
(Retail) | (Delaware Small Cap Value Fund) | Class A | return after taxes on distributions
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (7.68%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 0.21%
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 6.67%
(Retail) | (Delaware Small Cap Value Fund) | Class A | return after taxes on distributions and sale of Fund shares
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (3.74%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 0.52%
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 6.47%
(Retail) | (Delaware Small Cap Value Fund) | Class B
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases as a percentage of offering price rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPrice none
Maximum contingent deferred sales charge (load) as a percentage of original purchase price or redemption price, whichever is lower rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOfferingPrice 4.00% [1]
Management fees rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets 0.75%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets 1.00%
Other expenses rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets 0.37%
Total annual fund operating expenses rr_ExpensesOverAssets 2.12%
Fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets    [5]
Total annual fund operating expenses after fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_NetExpensesOverAssets 2.12%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleYear01 615
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear03 889
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear05 1,289
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear10 2,274
Expense Example, No Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear01 215
Expense Example, No Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear03 664
Expense Example, No Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear05 1,139
Expense Example, No Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear10 2,274
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (5.60%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 0.75%
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 7.63%
(Retail) | (Delaware Small Cap Value Fund) | Class C
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases as a percentage of offering price rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPrice none
Maximum contingent deferred sales charge (load) as a percentage of original purchase price or redemption price, whichever is lower rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOfferingPrice 1.00% [1]
Management fees rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets 0.75%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets 1.00%
Other expenses rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets 0.37%
Total annual fund operating expenses rr_ExpensesOverAssets 2.12%
Fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets    [5]
Total annual fund operating expenses after fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_NetExpensesOverAssets 2.12%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleYear01 315
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear03 664
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear05 1,139
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear10 2,452
Expense Example, No Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear01 215
Expense Example, No Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear03 664
Expense Example, No Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear05 1,139
Expense Example, No Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear10 2,452
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (2.84%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 1.14%
10 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10 7.48%
(Retail) | (Delaware Small Cap Value Fund) | Class R
  
Risk/Return: rr_RiskReturnAbstract  
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases as a percentage of offering price rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPrice none
Maximum contingent deferred sales charge (load) as a percentage of original purchase price or redemption price, whichever is lower rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOfferingPrice none
Management fees rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets 0.75%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets 0.60%
Other expenses rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets 0.37%
Total annual fund operating expenses rr_ExpensesOverAssets 1.72%
Fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets (0.10%) [5]
Total annual fund operating expenses after fee waivers and expense reimbursements rr_NetExpensesOverAssets 1.62%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year rr_ExpenseExampleYear01 165
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear03 532
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear05 942
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years rr_ExpenseExampleYear10 2,022
Label rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabel (lifetime: 6/2/03-12/31/11)
1 Year rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01 (1.38%)
5 Years rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05 1.65%
Lifetime rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInception 8.58%
[1] If you redeem Class B shares during the first year after you buy them, you will pay a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) of 4.00%, which declines to 3.25% during the second year, 2.75% during the third year, 2.25% during the fourth and fifth years, 1.50% during the sixth year, and 0% thereafter. Class C shares redeemed within one year of purchase are subject to a 1.00% CDSC.
[2] Class C shares redeemed within one year of purchase are subject to a 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC).
[3] The Fund's distributor, Delaware Distributors, L.P. (Distributor), has contracted to limit the Fund's Class A and Class R shares' 12b-1 fees from March 29, 2012 through March 29, 2013 to no more than 0.25% and 0.50% of average daily net assets, respectively. These waivers and reimbursements may be terminated only by agreement of the Distributor and the Fund.
[4] The Fund's investment manager, Delaware Management Company (Manager), has contractually agreed to waive all or a portion of its investment advisory fees and/or pay/reimburse expenses (excluding any 12b-1 fees, taxes, interest, short sale and dividend interest expenses, brokerage fees, certain insurance costs, and nonroutine expenses or costs, including, but not limited to, those relating to reorganizations, litigation, conducting shareholder meetings, and liquidations) in order to prevent total annual fund operating expenses from exceeding 1.15% of the Fund's average daily net assets from March 29, 2012 through March 29, 2013. In addition, the Fund's distributor, Delaware Distributors, L.P. (Distributor), has contracted to limit the Fund's Class A and Class R shares' 12b-1 fees from March 29, 2012 through March 29, 2013 to no more than 0.25% and 0.50% of average daily net assets, respectively. These waivers and reimbursements may only be terminated by agreement of the Manager or Distributor, as applicable, and the Fund.
[5] The Fund's distributor, Delaware Distributors, L.P. (Distributor), has contracted to limit the Fund's Class A and Class R shares' 12b-1 fees from March 29, 2012 through March 29, 2013 to no more than 0.25% and 0.50% of average daily net assets, respectively. These waivers and reimbursements may only be terminated by agreement of the Distributor and the Fund.
[6] The Fund's investment manager, Delaware Management Company (Manager), has contractually agreed to waive all or a portion of its investment advisory fees and/or pay/reimburse expenses (excluding any 12b-1 fees, taxes, interest, short sale and dividend interest expenses, brokerage fees, certain insurance costs, and nonroutine expenses or costs, including, but not limited to, those relating to reorganizations, litigation, conducting shareholder meetings, and liquidations) in order to prevent total annual fund operating expenses from exceeding 1.15% of the Fund's average daily net assets from March 29, 2012 through March 29, 2013. These waivers and reimbursements may only be terminated by agreement of the Manager and the Fund.