In this episode of The Good GP, host Dr Sean Stevens is joined by Dr Alison Creagh, a GP specialising in women's health and sexual and reproductive health, with over 20 years of experience in this field. Alison sheds light on the issue of intimate partner violence and its impact on the health of those affected, particularly women. She discusses how intimate partner violence differs from domestic violence and emphasises the importance of GPs in addressing this prevalent issue.
Delving into why patients may be reluctant to discuss intimate partner violence with their GPs and offers insights into how GPs can effectively broach this sensitive topic with their patients. Alison provides practical guidance on identifying potential signs of intimate partner violence and outlines gentle and effective approaches for GPs to initiate conversations with their patients.
Furthermore, Alison shares valuable resources and support services available to GPs and patients dealing with intimate partner violence, emphasising the need for confidentiality and sensitivity in handling such cases. Concluding with the discussion on additional learning opportunities and resources for GPs to further their understanding and approach in addressing intimate partner violence.
Resources for Getting Help on Intimate Partner Violence across Australia:
National
1800 RESPECT
Counselling, information and referral for people experiencing abuse, friends and family and health
professionals.
1800 737 732
MensLine Australia
For men with concerns about abuse, including those who are abusive.
1300 789 978
White Ribbon
Lists national helplines available according to needs.
whiteribbon.org.au/helplines
ACT
Domestic Violence Crisis Service
02 6280 0900
NSW
NSW Domestic Violence Line
Counselling and referrals for women experiencing DV
1800 656 463
NSW Department Communities and Justice
Online information source, with quick exit buttons
https://dcj.nsw.gov.au/children-and-families/family-domestic-and-sexual-violence.html
Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Services
Provide information, advocacy and referrals for women and children, and support accessing restraining orders
legalaid.nsw.gov.au/about-us/our-partners/womens-domestic-violence-court-advocacy-program
NT
Domestic, family and sexual violence page from NT government
Lists local support services according to region
nt.gov.au/law/crime/domestic-family-and-sexual-violence/get-help-for-domestic-family-and-sexual-violence
QLD
DVConnect Womensline
Support, accommodation, counselling and referrals for women experiencing family or domestic violence
1800 811 811
DVConnect Mensline
Support, counselling and referrals for men affected
1800 600 636
Government Domestic & Family Violence page
Information about services available
qld.gov.au/community/getting-support-health-social-issue/support-victims-abuse/domestic-family-violence
Domestic Violence Prevention Centre
Counselling, practical support, safety planning and referrals
07 5532 9000
SA
Domestic and family violence & sexual assault support services
Listings of supports available for specific issues
sa.gov.au/topics/family-and-community/safety-and-health/domestic-violence-and-sexual-assault/support-services
Domestic Violence Crisis Line
Crisis counselling, support and accommodation referrals
1800 800 098
TAS
Family Violence Counselling and Support Service
Information, support, safety planning, assistance with police, referrals
1800 608 122
health.tas.gov.au/health-topics/family-violence/family-violence-counselling-and-support-service-fvcss
VIC
Family Violence Statewide Support Services
Lists the relevant support services available
vic.gov.au/family-violence-statewide-support-services
Safe Steps
Crisis support, information and accommodation
1800 015 188
WA
Crisis Care
Information and counselling for people in crisis
1800 199 008
Women’s Domestic Violence help
Information, referral, support, police liaison
1800 007 339
Men’s Domestic Violence help
For men who have experienced abuse themselves, or are concerned about their own abusive behaviour,
or been served with a restraining order
1800 000 599
Centre for Women’s Safety and Wellbeing
Searchable information about who can provide help:
cwsw.org.au/directory
Women’s Legal Service WA
Useful resources on legal issues
Wlswa.org.au
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