Domestic Abuse
Level:
CPD
Duration:
3 hrs
Course code:
TD/2025/09028
Max group:
12
Learn to identify, support, and safeguard victims of domestic abuse in healthcare settings
Course Summary
Domestic Abuse
This course is designed to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to identify, support, and safeguard individuals experiencing domestic abuse. Participants will gain an understanding of the dynamics of abusive relationships, the impact of abuse on physical and mental health, and their role in providing trauma-informed care. Through practical guidance and real-world case studies, this course ensures healthcare providers are prepared to respond effectively and sensitively to patients affected by domestic abuse. Key Learning Objectives: Recognise Signs of Abuse: Identify physical, emotional, psychological, and behavioural indicators of domestic abuse. Understand the unique challenges faced by diverse patient populations. Understand the Dynamics of Domestic Abuse: Explore the power and control dynamics in abusive relationships. Recognise barriers victims face when seeking help or leaving abusive situations. Fulfil Legal and Ethical Responsibilities: Understand safeguarding protocols and confidentiality requirements. Learn how to balance patient care with legal obligations. Develop Communication Skills: Build trust and create a safe environment for patients to disclose abuse. Apply trauma-informed care principles in interactions with victims. Conduct Risk Assessments and Implement Safeguarding: Use risk assessment tools to determine appropriate interventions. Understand when and how to escalate concerns and involve external agencies. Collaborate with Multi-Agency Networks: Learn how to work effectively with domestic abuse services, social care, and law enforcement. Facilitate referrals and provide holistic support for patients. Enhance Professional Resilience: Manage the emotional and psychological impact of working with victims of abuse. Access support and supervision to build resilience in challenging cases. By the end of this course, participants will feel confident in recognising, addressing, and supporting victims of domestic abuse, ensuring they receive the care and protection they need.
Course Contents
Domestic Abuse in a Healthcare Setting 1.
Introduction to Domestic Abuse
Definition and types of domestic abuse
Prevalence and impact on health and wellbeing
Myths and misconceptions about domestic abuse
Recognising the Signs of Abuse Physical, emotional, psychological, and financial indicators
Subtle and hidden signs in patients
Understanding the impact of cultural, social, and gender factors
Dynamics of Domestic Abuse Power and control dynamics in abusive relationships
The cycle of abuse: patterns and behaviours
Barriers to leaving an abusive relationship
Role of Healthcare Professionals Legal and ethical responsibilities
Understanding the duty of care
Confidentiality and information sharing
Effective Communication and Support
How to approach and talk to patients about abuse Building trust and providing a safe space
Trauma-informed care practices
Risk Assessment and Safeguarding
Conducting risk assessments for domestic abuse
Safeguarding policies and procedures
When and how to escalate concerns
Inter-agency Collaboration
Working with local domestic abuse services
Referrals and follow-up care
Networking with social services, police, and legal support
Practical Scenarios and Case Studies
Role-playing and simulation exercises
Analysing real-world cases for insights
Discussion and group feedback
Self-Care for Healthcare Professionals
Managing emotional and psychological impact
Accessing support and supervision
Building resilience
Conclusion and Next Steps
Resources for further learning
Assessment
The instructor conducts a single written assessments at the end of the course. Upon successful completion, learners will receive a three-year Level 3 Award in Principles of Safeguarding and Protecting Children, Young People or Vulnerable Adults (Level 6 in Scotland). No external assessors are required for this qualification.
Duration
The course requires a minimum of 7 hours, distributed over the day. While it is ideal to complete the course in one day, we can adjust the schedule to suit your specific needs, as long as the course is completed within 3 weeks of starting and each training session lasts at least two hours.
Certification Validity
This qualification has no formal expiry, however regular CPD and updates are recommended.
Further Information - Course Numbers
A maximum of 12 students can be accommodated on this course and all candidates must be a minimum of 18 years of age to qualify.
Assessment method: Activities, test paper.
Pre-requisite: None
Suggested progression:
recommended refresher training and CPD;