Metro North Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Rebecca Olling

The health system is often a first point of contact for people who have experienced domestic and family violence (DFV) but do you know how to recognise, respond and refer a patient to appropriate services?

A relatively new role, the Metro North Domestic and Family Violence Specialist is currently shared by social workers Rebecca Olling and Jelena Senic, who aim to educate front line professionals to help them recognise and respond to domestic and family violence.

“Statistics show one in four women experiencing DFV Australia-wide and we know these victims have a high rate of disclosing their experiences to health professionals,” Rebecca said.

“A large part of our training involves educating staff on how to recognise indicators of domestic violence, ensuring they have the tools to respond effectively.

“Some staff might not know what to do or say so we’re here to give staff the confidence to know how to respond once a disclosure has been made and teach them the skills to see signs and risk-factors of DFV.

“We’re currently offering once-a-month online DFV training so keep an eye out for available dates in emails or feel free to get in touch directly for more information.”

A large part of the role, Rebecca says, involves coordinating and strengthening the partnerships they have with DFV support services in the area.

“It is highly likely that clinicians will come in to contact with victims, survivors and perpetrators, so it is important they know how to refer their patients to support services,” Rebecca said.

“When these women come into our health system, we ensure we have strong connections and links to community organisations available to them.

“We work closely with Metro North’s Women’s Legal Services and external services including the Centre Against Domestic Abuse and Save the Children.

“The services provide patients with free legal advice around property settlement, birth certificates, child protection laws, parenting, domestic violence and programs that work alongside our local police officers.”

Virtual Domestic and Family Violence Training is available on various date options in June. More details and RSVP your preferred date.

For more details, contact Rebecca on 0408 147 229.