1. Domestic abuse – Learning Lessons Sarah Khalil Designated Nurse for Adult Safeguarding

2. What is domestic abuse? The cross-government definition of domestic violence and abuse is: any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality. The abuse can encompass, but is not limited to: psychological physical sexual financial emotional

3. Some signs of domestic abuse May cover body with clothing to hide any injuries. Attends late or frequently misses appointments. Seems frightened of partner and excessively passive. Evasive or embarrassed about any injuries or home situation. Over-vehement denial or minimisation of violence. Evidence of sexual abuse or frequent gynaecological problems. History of repeated miscarriages, termination of pregnancies/ still births or pre-term labour. Panic attacks/ anxiety/ depression. Alcohol or drug abuse.

4. Why the survivor may remain in an abusive relationship Gains Safety (Victim & Children). Self Confidence/ esteem. Training/ Work Opportunities. New friends/ relationships. New Home. Improved Health. Independence. Improved Relationship with Children. Losses Relationship. Loss of life (Increases risk of Murder). Home. Job. Extended Family/ Community/ Friends. Income if dependent upon partner Status if linked to partner. Children e.g school place, their parent etc

5. Case Study 1 Female Adult 1 was murdered in 2011 History of rape and physical assault History of perpetrator using controlling behaviour Approached her own G.P and disclosed violence

6. Lessons learnt Initially victims may not fully disclose the extent and nature of domestic abuse Publicity campaigns should target family and friends so they can direct victims to support services Safety plans are crucial Risk increases to victims at the point of leaving Training is essential for professionals Female victims may only want to talk to females Therapeutic support should be available The importance of partnership working

7. CCG action We are signed up to Manchester Domestic Abuse Forum’s multi agency strategy Domestic Homicide Reviews IRIS project (Identification and Referral to Improve Safety) Safeguarding is everybody’s responsibility

8. What can you do? Give respect and validation Display posters and leaflets Visit www.endthefear.co.ukwww.endthefear.co.uk Access training Good record keeping Consult with specialist agencies Confidentiality and information sharing – risk to a child or a vulnerable adult? Support and follow up e.g with a Domestic Abuse agency – could you provide access to a room and a phone?

9. To refer a child or a vulnerable adult to Manchester City Council Contact Centre: 0161 234 5001 socialcare@manchester. gcsx.gov.uk To discuss concerns with the Rusholme NHS Safeguarding Children’s Team: 0161 861 2250