North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) is offering opportunities for general practices to participate in a training program to recognise, respond and refer to family violence disclosures.
Data gathered in 2022 by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) found that 20 per cent of adults had experienced family violence (FV) at least once since the age of 15.
Women were more than twice as likely as men to be impacted. Indeed, AIHW figures also reveal that about 12 per cent of children witness their mother being assaulted by a partner.
Research suggests that general practices see high numbers of people experiencing FV. However, there are several factors that represent barriers to disclosure, which means patients can miss out on receiving appropriate support.
NWMPHN is partnering with the Safer Families Centre of Research Excellence at the University of Melbourne to deliver the Primary Care Pathways to Safety project. It provides direct tailored support to improve the confidence of general practice teams to respond to FV, and to build greater cohesion and coordination across local health, social care, and FV services.
Why is this important?
GPs and other primary health service providers are well placed to respond because they see victim-survivors, perpetrators, and children.
Estimates suggest that full-time GPs may see up to five women per week who have experienced some form of physical, emotional, or sexual intimate partner abuse in the previous year.
First introduced in 2019, Primary Care Pathways to Safety has been extended, reviewed and renewed. So far 41 general practices from different LGAs across the catchment have completed the training.
Another 10 places are now available. Participating practices are given an incentive payment of $3000 (excluding GST) and RACGP and ACRRM accredited CPD hours.
Training will begin in July 2024, with some flexibility for practices to complete it at their own pace by December 2024. A wrap-up meeting and post-project evaluation will occur after training completion.
To apply, please visit this page. Closing date is 27 June 2024.
Questions and support
We are here to help. If you have any questions about the project, please email primarycare@nwmphn.org.au
