Health Professionals Experiencing Family Violence

The Health, Wellbeing & Relationships Project

The Health, Wellbeing & Relationships Project represents the largest study of intimate partner (IPV) and sexual violence (SV) against health professionals in the world. The findings indicate that all forms of IPV and/or SV may be more prevalent against Australian nurses, midwives and carers than the general community and IPV is associated with poor physical and psychological health, and contributes to work impacts including increased leave from work. The research indicates the need for greater awareness about survivor nurses; a specific group of individuals at the frontline of responding to the health and safety of survivor patients presenting for healthcare. Survivor nurses need targeted support, workplace advocacy and a trauma and violence informed response to support and strengthen their safety, recovery and their work.

An earlier project, The Women’s Against Violence Project was the first Australian study about the domestic and family violence against Australian nurses, doctors and allied health professionals. This study investigated the prevalence, impacts and implications of family violence against women health professionals (see below publications further). This study found that family violence was common and appeared to facilitate sensitive care of survivor patients. These findings demonstrate the need for trauma-informed hospitals and have translated to enhanced support for survivor staff in Victorian hospitals. To hear Elizabeth talk about this project, watch the video on this page.