In this episode we explore domestic abuse within the nursing workforce: why nurses are at increased risk, why this issue has often remained hidden, and the vital role colleagues can play in recognising and responding to those experiencing abuse.

We are joined by Dr Alison Gregory, Independent Academic and Honorary Senior Research Fellow at  the University of Bristol, to discuss the latest evidence on domestic abuse among healthcare professionals and why many victim-survivors first disclose their experiences to someone they know and trust rather than a specialist service.

We explore how colleagues can recognise the signs that someone may be experiencing domestic abuse, how to start compassionate conversations with confidence, and what a supportive response looks like. We also discuss common misconceptions and practical ways to offer non-judgemental support aimed at empowering people.

Finally, we consider what healthcare organisations and nursing leaders can do to create workplaces where staff feel safe to seek help, and how colleagues can continue to offer meaningful support over time.

Listener discretion advised: This episode discusses domestic abuse, including coercive and controlling behaviour, and may be distressing for some listeners. Please listen at your own pace and consider taking a break if needed. If you are affected by any of the issues discussed, please consider talking to someone whom you trust, or reaching out to one of the specialist services (see further information).

Further information:

UK specialist support: https://www.rcn.org.uk/-/media/RCN-Foundation/Documents/Domestic-violence-helplines.pdf

NOMORE global directory of specialist support: https://www.nomore.org/the-no-more-global-directory/

Safe Spaces free resources to train people to respond to colleagues experiencing domestic abuse: https://safespaces-againstviolence.axa.com/en/

Nursing And Midwifery professionals’ Experiences of Domestic abuse (NAMED) study: https://rcnfoundation.rcn.org.uk/Research-projects/Priority-research-areas/Domestic-abuse-in-nursing-and-midwifery/NAMED-study