Family violence podcast for health workers

Family violence is a major health issue that occurs across all ages and socioeconomic and demographic groups, but which predominantly affects women and children.

Intimate partner violence is the greatest health risk factor for women aged 25 to 44 and one in four Australian women have experienced violence by an intimate partner since the age of 15.

“These are shocking statistics, but sadly they perhaps don’t come as much of a surprise to our clinical staff who have treated patients presenting for injuries or medical conditions relating to family violence,” Western Health CEO Russell Harrison said.

Western Health has launched a new educational podcast series, If only someone had asked, aimed at healthcare workers who interact with victim-survivors of family violence.

The podcast explores how healthcare workers can best support victim-survivors through increased awareness in their clinical practice, and through appropriate referrals to family violence services. It features stories from both victim-survivors and frontline healthcare workers and is led by Assunta Morrone, Manager, Strengthening Hospital Responses to Family Violence at Western Health.

“This new podcast series explores the issue of family violence; what it is and why it occurs; how to identify it when we see it; and how we as a health sector can respond. It features victim-survivors who courageously share their experiences of family violence as well as community and health professionals working to strengthen responses to family violence,” Morrone said.

“In my role, I provide advice and information to doctors, nurses and allied health professionals on the best ways to respond to and appropriately refer victim-survivors who need assistance. A podcast is a great way to reach busy healthcare workers because they can listen on their smartphones at a time that suits them. The lived experiences of our victim-survivors, while often confronting, can help clinicians understand the barriers our patients can face when trying to access support.”

The podcast is aimed at healthcare workers but wider audiences will also find it compelling.

If you, or anyone you know, is at risk of family and/or domestic violence, contact your local police. Support is available on 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). In an emergency, please call Triple Zero (000).

Image credit: Assunta Morrone with Western Health nurse Jess. Image: Supplied.