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Recognising and responding to domestic violence and abuse

Published January 2020

A quick guide for social workers

This quick guide offers social workers a summary of NICE guidance on the how to identify and help stop domestic violence and abuse. It will walk through recognising the indicators of abuse, talking to people about it and offering support and referral for protection, if needed.

It covers the key points on domestic violence and abuse, and guides social workers so they can provide effective support for people who have experienced domestic abuse, as well as their children. This includes:

  • Asking about domestic violence and abuse.
  • Responding to disclosures.
  • Children and young people.
  • Training and supervision.

Webinar recording – 24 January 2020

Watch this webinar to find out more about using NICE guidance to improve support for people who have experienced domestic violence and abuse and their children.

Social workers are in a key position to identify and help stop domestic violence and abuse. They can do this by recognising the indicators of abuse, talking to people about it and offering support and referral for protection if needed.

Even experienced social workers can find asking about domestic violence and abuse difficult. It requires a lot of skill and understanding to talk to people about their experience, particularly when they are reluctant, or perhaps frightened, to disclose what has happened to them.

The webinar was presented by:

  • Michelle O’Keefe – Domestic violence co-ordinator/trainer, Leeds Council
  • Karen Gorbutt – Specialist Domestic Abuse Social Worker, Croydon Council
  • Claudia Megele – Head of Service for QA and Practice, Hertfordshire County Council

Webinar recording: Asking about and responding to domestic violence and abuse

Recognising and responding to domestic violence and abuse