Domestic Abuse Policy (Patients and Visitors)

Introduction

Domestic abuse and violence is a crime. It does not respect race, geography, social background or other similar factors. It is likely to affect one in four women and one in six men in their lifetimes, with women suffering higher rates of repeat victimisation and serious injury. It accounts for 14% of violent crime, covering offences ranging from common assault to rape and murder; it has a massive impact on victims, their children and the wider community

Throughout this policy the term domestic abuse (DA) will be used to refer to all forms of coercive controlling behaviours which includes the use of physical and sexual violence. This policy document must be used in conjunction with local area procedures (London and Surrey).

Scope

This guidance applies to all staff employed by the Trust. It also applies to staff employed on honorary and temporary contracts. This policy provides the framework through which the Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust aim to ensure that there is a cohesive and co-coordinated approach to those experiencing domestic abuse, and that they will receive the recognition, information and support they require and want.

Purpose

• To support staff to effectively deliver a safe response where DA is disclosed or suspected;
• To provide resources to all staff, providing specific advice and guidance on DA;
• To improve staff awareness on the broad scope of the definition of DA;
• To ensure appropriate documentation of DA concerns and information sharing is undertaken; and
• To cross reference and highlight the issue of DA within Safeguarding Adult and Children policies both locally and nationally;

Policy Details