Health workers to tackle issue of domestic abuse

Health professionals could be required to ask pregnant women if
they are suffering from domestic violence as part of a new strategy
designed to identify victims earlier, writes Maria
Ahmed.

Public health minister Melanie Johnson announced the plans as part
of measures to help domestic violence victims at a conference last
week.

Antenatal appointments could be used to establish risk of abuse
following research that shows around one third of cases begin or
intensify during pregnancy.

The role of health workers may include asking women directly about
their experience of abuse, enabling women to access specialised
services and supporting them in changing their situation, according
to a home office report.