Calls for domestic violence training for medical professionals

Domestic violence charity Women’s Aid is urging local and national Governments across the country to ensure medical professionals supporting pregnant women receive specialist domestic violence training.

The charity is highlighting that pregnancy and childbirth can exacerbate domestic violence, with 30% of all physical violence starting during pregnancy.

“Pregnant women are at particular risk of experiencing domestic violence throughout their pregnancy and immediately afterwards,” explained Polly Neate, Chief Executive of Women’s Aid.

“These figures show once again that domestic violence has a significant impact on women’s mental health," she added. "Health professionals have many more opportunities to reach out to women and offer support during pregnancy than at other times, but many don’t because they don’t have the confidence or expertise they need.”

“That’s why we’re calling for all health professionals to receive specialist-led domestic violence training to help them support women experiencing domestic violence during and immediately after pregnancy, such as the recent training the Institute for Health Visiting have rolled nationally,” she concluded.

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